research issues

Question 1

extraneous vairables

Answer 1

nuisance variables that do not vary systematically with the IV and can often be controlled before the experiment begins

any variable, other than the independent variable, that may affect the dependent variable if not controlled

Question 2

confounding variables

Answer 2

variables that do vary systematically with the IV so we cannot be sure what caused the change in the DV

Question 3

demand characteristics

Answer 3

any cue from the researcher or from the research situation that may be interpreted by participants as revealing the purpose of an investigation

this may lead to a participant changing their behaviour within the research situation

Question 4

investigator effects

Answer 4

any effect of the investigator’s behaviour on the research outcome
this may include everything from the design of the study to the selection of, and interaction with, participants during the research process

• conscious or unconscious

Question 5

randomisation

Answer 5

the use of chance methods to control for the effects of bias when designing materials and deciding the order of experimental conditions

Question 6

standardisation

Answer 6

using exactly the same formalised procedures and instructions for all participants in a research study

making sure that all the participants are subject to the same instructions and experience