Quantitative Research Methods Flashcards
What are lab experiments?
A lab experiment is a tightly controlled research method conducted in an artificial environment in order to test for a hypothesis.
The purpose of conducting a laboratory experiment is to see if the independent variable has an effect on the dependent variable (variable that is being tested and measured during the experiment)
Strengths of lab experiments
High in reliability- produce the same results every time.
Lab experiments are within an artificial environment so therefore are controlled and monitored.
Weakness of experiments
- lab experiments are in an artificial environment meaning it is hard to apply to real life. People know they are being researched and change their behaviour (Hawthorne effect)
Lab experiments have created ethical problems in the past, such as lack of informed consent and harm. (Milgram study of obedience)
Field experiments are less controlled. Therefore it is hard to control all the variables (other factors that could affect a person behaviour)
What are Field experiments?
Experiment that is carried out in a real-life environment where people are engaged in everyday normal behaviour. Often participants do not know they are taking part in a study. In field experiments the researcher is still able to manipulate the independent variable to see if it has an effect on the dependent variable.
