Research issues

Question 1

Extraneous variables

Answer 1

Any variable other than the IV that may affect the DV if it’s not controlled. Do not vary systematically with the IV.

Question 2

Confounding variables

Answer 2

A kind of extraneous variable but the key feature of a CV is that it varies systematically with the IV. Therefore cannot tell if change in the DV is due to IV or confounding variable.

Question 3

Demand characteristics

Answer 3

Any cue from the researcher or research situation that may reveal the purpose of the investigation. Px’s may also look for clues that tell them how to behave. May act in a way they think is expected so this means behaviour isn’t natural.

Question 4

Investigator effects

Answer 4

Any unwanted influence of the investigator on the research outcome. Can be conscious or unconscious, for example: smile more at one group, can be related to study design also (selection of px’s, instructions).

Question 5

Randomisation

Answer 5

Use of chance methods to control for the effects of bias when designing materials and deciding the order of experimental conditions. Attempt to control investigator effects.

Question 6

Standardisation

Answer 6

Using exactly the same formalised procedures and instructions for all px’s in a research study.