Types Of Experiment (RM). Flashcards
What is a laboratory experiment?
An experiment that is carried out in a controlled environment where the independent variable is manipulated and extraneous variables are controlled with cause and effect relationships being established
3 key features: direct manipulation of the independent variable/ control of extraneous variables/randomisation
What are the strengths of laboratory experiments?
High level of control of extraneous variables
High degree of replicability
Cause and effect relationships can be uncovered
What are the limitations of laboratory experiments?
Reduced ecological validity
Increased risk of investigator effects and demand characteristics
Participants are often required to behave in ways that are artificial
What is a field experiment?
An experiment that takes place outside a laboratory environment, where the independent variable is manipulated and cause and effect relationship can be inferred
What are the strengths of field experiments?
Cause and effect relationships can be uncovered
Higher levels of ecological validity than a true/ laboratory experiment
Reduction in demand characteristics
What are the limitations of field experiments?
Reduced control over extraneous variables
Often more time consuming
Ethical issues if participants do not know that they are experimented upon
What is a natural experiment?
An experiment where naturally occurring changes in independent variables are observed
What is a quasi experiment?
An experiment where participants cannot be randomly assigned to experimental and control groups
What are the strengths of natural and quasi experiments?
Useful where it would be impractical or impossible to manipulate variables
High levels of ecological validity
What are the limitations of natural and quasi experiments?
Not always possible to clearly identify cause and effect relationships
