Unit 1: History & Methods; Module 1b: the Experimental Method

Question 1

Experiment

Answer 1

Research method in which the investigator manipulates a variable under carefully controlled conditions and observes whether any changes occur in a second variable as a result (how X affects Y)

Question 2

Independent Variable

Answer 2

(X) A condition or event that an experimenter varies in order to see its impact on another variable

Question 3

Dependent Variable

Answer 3

(Y) Thought to be affected by manipulation of the independent variable

Question 4

Hypothesis

Answer 4

A tentative statement about the relationship b/w two or more variables

Question 5

Experimental Group

Answer 5

The subjects in a study who receive some special treatment in regard to the independent variable

Question 6

Control Group

Answer 6

Subjects in a study who do not receive the special treatment given to the experimental group