1A - Investigation aims, hypotheses and variables Flashcards
Develop aim and questions, formulate hypotheses and make predictions. (16 cards)
What the investigation aim?
Purpose of the study.
An example of an investigation aim is ‘To investigate the effect of sugar consumption on attention levels in children.’
What is a controlled experiment?
- experimental investigation
- relationship b/w one or more IV and a DV
-All other variables are controlled.
What are extraneous variables?
- variables other than the IV.
- may have an unwanted effect on the DV and results.
What should a hypothesis include?
A hypothesis should include:
* the IV and DV being investigated
* an indication of the strength or direction of the variable
* a comparison of the groups being investigated.
What might confounding variables do in an experiment?
-can obscure the relationship between the IV and DV.
-affecting the validity of the results.
examples of an extraneous and confound variable.
- Individual differences b/w participant variables (age, sex, etc.)
- Differences in the experimental setting (temperature, noise level, etc.)
*Influence of the experimenter on participant responses or procedure - participant related variables
- order effects
-placebo effects - experimenter bias
- situational variables
- non-standardized instructions and procedures
- demand characteristics
What is the hypothesis?
A statement predicting the probable outcomes of a study. the investigation results
How do controlled variables help in an investigation?
-ensure the validity of the results.
Clear change by isolating the effects of the IV alone.
This prevents other factors from influencing the dependent variable.
What is the difference between controlled variables and the control group?
Controlled variables are kept constant for both experimental and control conditions.
Control group does not receive the experimental treatment.
Controlled variables help eliminate external influences on results.
What procedures can be used to control for extraneous variables?
*Investigation design
*Sampling technique *random allocation
* Increase sample size
*Written scripts for verbal instructions
*Constant experimental setting
* Deception
* Placebo
*Different investigation methodology.
What happens when an extraneous variable cannot be controlled?
-Should be monitored closely to determine any unwanted effect on the results.
What is a confounding variable?
- unwanted variable
- affects the results of an investigation.
What compromises internal validity in research?
when extraneous variables are not controlled for
- impossible to determine the influence of the IV on the DV
What is a potential extraneous variable in a study measuring the effectiveness of a new medicine?
Variability in participant symptoms or prior medical history.
Controlled Variable
a variable- held constant
Ensures the only influence on the DV is the IV
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