Types of experiment

Question 1

What is a lab experiment

Answer 1

Highly controlled environment where IV is manipulated and effect on DV is recorded

Question 2

Strengths and weaknesses of lab experiment

Answer 2

Strengths: Controls extraneous/confounding variables
Replicable due to standardised procedure = high reliability

Weaknesses: Low ecological validity
Demand characteristics

Question 3

What is a field experiment

Answer 3

IV is manipulated and effect on DV is recorded but takes place in the real world

Question 4

Strengths and weaknesses of field experiment

Answer 4

Strengths: Natural environment - high ecological validity
Some control of extraneous variables

Weaknesses: Can’t control confounding variables
Ethical issues e.g. no consent

Question 5

What is a natural experiment

Answer 5

IV occurs naturally

Question 6

Strengths and weaknesses of natural experiment

Answer 6

Strengths: Ethical for controversial topics
High external validity

Weaknesses: Rarely occurs
May have confounding variables

Question 7

What is a quasi experiment

Answer 7

IV is a pre existing difference between people e.g. age

Question 8

Strengths and weaknesses of quasi experiment

Answer 8

Strengths: Ethical for controversial topics
Allows for comparisons - high ecological validity

Weaknesses: May have confounding variables
No control over IV so no cause and effect
Naturally occurring events are rare