Variables and Control

Question 1

Independent variable

Answer 1

the variable that is manipulated by the researcher to observe the effect on the DV

Question 2

dependent variable

Answer 2

the variable that is measured by the researcher

Question 3

extraneous variable

Answer 3

any variable other than the IV and DV that may have an effect on the DV if not controlled and which does not vary systematically with the IV

Question 4

confounding variable

Answer 4

any variable other than the IV or DV which may have affected the DV so we cannot be sure whether the IV was the source of change of the DV. These vary systematically with the IV