Experimental method

Question 1

Experimental method

Answer 1

Involves the manipulation of an IV to measure the effect on the DV. Experiments may be: laboratory, field, natural and quasi.

Question 2

Aims

Answer 2

A general statement of what the researcher intends to investigate- purpose of the study. In psychological research, aims are developed from theories.

Question 3

Two types of hypothesises

Answer 3

Directional
Non-directional

Question 4

Hypothesis

Answer 4

Statement made at the start of a study and clearly states the relationship between the variables to be investigated.

Question 5

Directional hypothesis

Answer 5

States the direction of the difference or relationship. Uses words like more or less, higher or lower etc.

Question 6

Non-directional hypothesis

Answer 6

Simply states there’s a difference between conditions or groups of people but the nature of the difference isn’t specified.

Question 7

Deciding which type of hypothesis to use

Answer 7

Researchers tend to use a directional hypothesis when a theory or findings of previous studies suggest a particular outcome. Researcher use a non-directional hypothesis when there is no theory or previous study or if findings from earlier studies contradict eachother.

Question 8

Independent and dependent variables

Answer 8

Researchers manipulate the IV and records the effect of this change on the DV. All other variables that could affect the DV should remain constant so the researcher can be confident any change in the DV was due to the IV alone.

Question 9

Levels of the IV

Answer 9

Control condition
Experimental condition