All of it Flashcards
(207 cards)
What is an independent variable?
The variable a researcher manipulates.
What is a dependent variable?
The variable a researcher measures.
Define ‘operationalisation’
When variables are clearly specified i.e. made precise.
Explain why operationalisation is important
Increases objectivity and replicability.
What is an extraneous variable?
A random variable, other than the IV, that could affect the results.
Why is it important to control extraneous variables?
To prevent them from affecting the results, increasing the validity of the findings.
What is a confounding variable?
A variable that varies with the IV that has affected the results.
What is the purpose of counterbalancing?
To equally distribute order effects across conditions in a repeated measures design.
Outline the procedures of counterbalancing
Participants are allocated into one of two groups. One group completes conditions A then B. The other group completes conditions B then A.
What is the purpose of random allocation?
To remove researcher bias when allocating participants to groups.
Outline the procedures of random allocation
Participants’ names are written on pieces of paper, placed into a hat and shuffled. The researcher blindly pulls out names to allocate groups.
What is the purpose of randomisation?
To randomly present the order of stimuli.
Outline the procedures of randomisation
All stimuli are printed on pieces of paper, placed into a hat, shuffled, and then drawn blindly for presentation order.
What is the purpose of standardisation?
Ensures all participants have the same experience.
Identify three ways in which you could standardise a study
E.g. use the same instructions, same researcher, keep the location/level of distractions the same.
Outline the experimental method
Involves manipulating an independent variable to result in at least two conditions.
Identify the experimental designs
Independent groups, repeated measures and matched pairs.
Explain what is meant by an independent groups design
When different participants take part in each condition.
Explain what is meant by a repeated measures design
When the same participants take part in all conditions.
Explain what is meant by a matched pairs design
When different participants take part in each condition but are matched on key variables.
Describe the procedures of a matched pairs design
Match participants on key variables and randomly allocate each member to conditions.
Give two strengths of an independent groups design
No risk of order effects and low risk of demand characteristics.
Give two limitations of an independent groups design
High risk of participant variables and more time consuming.
Give two strengths of a repeated measures design
No risk of participant variables and less time consuming.