Methods [Key Terms]
Dependent variable - correct answer factor in an experiment that is measured.
Changes are expected to be caused by the IV
Independent variable - correct answer factor in an experiment that is manipulated or
changed to influence the DV.
Experimental condition - correct answer IV is actively changed
Confounding variables - correct answer external factors that affect the DV
Operationalization - correct answer defining variables so experiment can be
replicated
Independent measures design - correct answer experimental design where
participants are allocated to levels of the IV
Repeated measures design - correct answer experimental design where participants
takes part in both levels of the IV
Matched participants design - correct answer experimental design where
participants with similar characteristics are matched and placed in separate groups which are allocated
to levels of the IV
Counterbalancing - correct answer used in repeated measures design. Participants
are put into groups which take part in both levels of the IV but in a different order
, Order effects - correct answer when changes in performance are produced from
repeated measures
Practice effect - correct answer participant performance improves because they have
already encountered the task and may remember the answer
Fatigue effect - correct answer participant performance worsens because they have
already encountered the task and may be bored or tired
Quasi-experiment - correct answer term for an experiment in which researcher
makes use of natural differences and variables are not all controlled
True experiment - correct answer when participants are randomly allocated to
different conditions
Laboratory experiment - correct answer experiment in which the IV is manipulated
and all other confounding variables are controlled to measure the effect on the DV
Field experiment - correct answer experiment that takes place in the natural
environment of the participants. The IV is manipulated but confounding variables cannot be controlled.
Natural experiment - correct answer An experiment in which nature, rather than a
researcher, manipulates an independent variable.
Experimental hypothesis - correct answer either a directional or non-directional
hypothesis
Non-directional/Two tailed hypothesis - correct answer hypothesis that states the IV
will change the DV but whether it will increase or decrease is not stated
Directional/One tailed hypothesis - correct answer hypothesis that states the IV will
cause increase/decrease in DV