2.6.4 Experimental Design

Question 1

Identify the experimental design used in your experiment

Answer 1

Independent groups design

Question 2

Describe the experimental design in your experiment

Answer 2

Category 1= under 25 yrs
Category 2= over 25 yrs

Different ptps took part in each condition, 5 in older condition, 5 in younger condition

Question 3

Outline one strength of the experimental design used in your experiment

Answer 3

IDG = no order effects
- increases validity as only one condition experiment, outcome not affected

= one of the only appropriate methods
- the IV is naturally occurring therefore, allocation of ptps to groups had to be natural —> not in researchers control

Question 4

Outline one weakness fo the experimental design used in your experiment

Answer 4

1. More time consuming as more ptps are required
2. Ptps variables may impact DV (e.g illness) - can be emidicated by asking questions (e.g have you been ill)

Question 5

Explain how you could have used an alternative experimental design in your experiment and why you didn’t use it

Answer 5

Could have used matched pairs
- reduces influence of ptp variables
- pairs ptps with others with similar characteristics (difficult)
- increases internal validity of study
- allows researcher to attribute observed differences to the manipulated IV rather than EV
- time consuming