Experimental method- types of experiment Flashcards
What is a laboratory experiment in psychology?
A highly controlled experiment conducted in an artificial setting. The IV is manipulated and extraneous variables are controlled to establish cause and effect.
Strengths of laboratory experiments?
-High control = fewer confounding variables.
-Replicable = increased reliability.
Weaknesses of laboratory experiments?
-Lacks ecological validity due to artificial setting.
-May produce demand characteristics, lowering validity.
What is a field experiment?
An experiment conducted in a natural setting where the IV is manipulated, but with less control over extraneous variables.
Strengths of field experiments?
-Higher ecological validity than lab experiments.
-Participants may behave more naturally (lower demand characteristics).
Weaknesses of field experiments?
-Lower control = harder to establish cause and effect.
-Ethical issues: participants may not give informed consent.
What is a natural experiment?
The IV is not manipulated by the researcher but occurs naturally; used when manipulation is unethical or impractical (e.g. studying effects of a natural disaster).
Strengths of natural experiments?
Allows study of real-life issues not feasible in lab.
• High ecological validity.
• Useful when IVs can’t be ethically manipulated.
Weaknesses of natural experiments?
-No control over IV = less internal validity.
-Often hard to replicate due to unique circumstances.
-May lack random allocation.
What is a quasi-experiment?
A study where the IV is based on a pre-existing difference (e.g. gender), not manipulated by the researcher. Can occur in lab or natural settings.
Strengths of quasi-experiments?
-Allows comparisons between different types of people.
-Often conducted under controlled conditions (if in lab).
Weaknesses of quasi-experiments?
-No random allocation = possible participant variables.
-Can’t claim full causal relationships.
