Types of Experiments Flashcards
Types of Experiments
Lab experiments, Field, Natural, Quasi
Lab Experiments
Takes place in a controlled environ within which researcher manipulates IV and record effect of DV.
Strengths of Lab Experiments
High control over extraneous variables meaning researcher can ensure any effect on DV is likely to be result of manipulation of IV, increasing internal validity.
Strengths of Lab Experiments
To ensure extraneous variables aren’t introduced, Replication is more possible. Vital to check results to see if findings are valid.
Weakness of Lab Experiments
Artificial, lacking external validity.
Weakness of Lab Experiments
Aware that they are being tested in a lab, leading to unnatural behaviour.
Field Experiments
Takes place in a natural setting within which researcher manipulates IV and records effects of DV.
Strengths of Field Experiments
High mundane realism (experiment mirrors the real world) as more natural environ so more natural behaviour.
Weakness of Field Experiments
Ethical issues. If participants are unware that they are being studied, they can’t consent to being studied and such research might constitute an invasion of privacy.
Weakness of Field Experiments
Loss of control over extraneous variables. Researcher can’t ensure any effect on DV is likely to be result of manipulation of IV so replication isn’t possible.
Natural Experiments
Change in IV isn’t brought about by the researcher but would have happened even if researcher was absent. They record effects on DV.
Strengths of Natural Experiments
High external validity as involve studies of real life issues: effects of natural disasters on stress levels.
Weakness of Natural Experiments
Naturally occurring event would happen rarely, reducing opportunities for research.
Quasi Experiments
Not an experiment but more of a study. IV hasn’t been determined by anyone - variables just exists (old, young, etc.)
Strengths of Quasi Experiments
Carried under controlled conditions so it’s good.
