Types of experiment

Question 1

What are laboratory experiments?

Answer 1

Laboratory experiments are conducted in highly controlled environments. This is not always in a laboratory

Question 2

What are the strengths of lab experiments?

Answer 2

Lab experiments have high control over extraneous variables
- This means that the researcher can ensure that any affect of the DV is likely to be the result of manipulation of the IV. Meaning we can be more certain about demonstrating cause and effect (high internal validity)
Replication is more possible
- Because of the high level of control. This ensures that new extraneous variables are not introduced when repeating an experiment.

Question 3

What are the limitations of lab experiments?

Answer 3

May lack generalisability
- the environment may be artificial and not like everyday life
Participants are usually aware they are being tested in a lab experiment and this may make them act in an ‘unnatural’ way