Research Methods Flashcards
Independent variable
The variable the researcher changes
Dependent variable
The variable being measured in a study
Extraneous variables
A variable that is not controlled, which could affects the results of a study
Confounding variable
An extraneous variable that affects the results of the study so that the effect of the IV is not truly seen
Demand characteristics
When the participant alters their behavior in response to the perceived aims of the investigation
Standardized procedure
Where the procedure of a study is the same across all conditions
Target population
The group of people being investigated in a study
Validity
Whether the test measures what it was intended to measure
Generalizability
Extent to which the results of a study represent the whole population and not just the sample used
Qualitative method
Emphasis of the research is on gathering lots of detailed information from which theories emerge. Eg: case studies
Quantitative method
Tests a prediction and gathers quantitative data
Ethical issues
Researchers follow rules of conduct to protect participants from harm
