Types of experiment

Question 1

Lab experiment

Answer 1

• Takes place in a controlled environment
• Record the effect of the IV on the DV
• Strict control of extraneous variables

Question 2

Field experiment

Answer 2

• Takes place in a natural setting

- Record the effect of the IV on the DV

Question 3

Natural experiment

Answer 3

• The IV is brought about naturally (not manipulated)

- Record the effect on the DV

Question 4

Quasi experiment

Answer 4

• IV not determined by anyone, simply exists on its own
• Not an experiment
• Can occur in a controlled or natural setting

Question 5

Lab experiment advantages

Answer 5

• Control of extraneous variables

- Replica-table

Question 6

Lab experiment disadvantages

Answer 6

• Low ecological validity (artificial environment)

- Demand characteristics as participants can guess the aim

Question 7

Field experiment advantages

Answer 7

• High ecological validity (real life- ‘field’)

- Less demand characteristics (participants not aware of study/aim but may be able to guess)

Question 8

Field experiment disadvantages

Answer 8

• Less control over extraneous variables(no control)

- Less replica-table (because results may not be valid)

Question 9

Natural experiment advantages

Answer 9

• High ecological validity(focus on natural events)

- no demand characteristics (participants not aware of study/aim)

Question 10

Natural experiment disadvantages

Answer 10

• No control over extraneous variables (many things can affect the validity of the results)
• Difficult to replicate (event occurs infrequently)