Research methods(variables)

Question 1

Extraneous variables -

Answer 1

Refers to any variables in the study that have been failed to control that does not directly link to the IV for example, light, temperature, noise, smell, time day of the week, lack of clarity. All of the following may lead to an affect on the individuals performance.

Question 2

Confounding variables -

Answer 2

A type of extraneous variable that directly links to the independent variable, it means you have failed to separate two variables, therefore cannot establish cause and effect.

Question 3

Pilot study - (way of measuring extraneous variables present before the real thing)

Answer 3

A small-scale trial run of a study to test any aspects of the design , allows an improvement of making better future results. Participants may not understand the full procedure of a study and not be able to guess what the study is about or they may get bored while doing the study.

Question 4

Summary of pilot study -

Answer 4

• Check suitability of all aspects of the design
• Identify any flaws in the study
• Address these flaws by adjusting/re-designing the study to overcome the problems identified.