Type of experiments! Flashcards
what kind (lab/quasi/field) (9 cards)
What is a lab experiment?
An experiment conducted in a special environment where variables can be carefully controlled. Participants are aware they are taking part in an experiment, though they may not know the true aims of the study.
Strrenghts of lab experiments?
High internal validity due to control over extraneous variables (can prove iv directly affectiing dv)
High reliability because it uses standardised procedures (that they control0 allowing replication.
Weaknesses of lab experiments?
Low ecological validity – artificial setting doesn’t reflect real life, harder to generalise to real ife
High risk of demand characteristics – participants may guess the aim and alter behaviour. Pariticpants also know they are being tested so may affect their behaviour- lowers internal validity.
What is a quasi-experiment?
An experiment where the IV occurs naturally (e.g. gender or phobias), and the researcher does not manipulate it. We see the affect of this on the DV.
Features of quasi experiments?
Quasi experiments are conducted in a tightly controlled environment
The experimenter does not manipulate the independent variable - it simply exists.
3) The experimenter measures the dependent variable
4) The experimenter controls the extraneous variables.
5) The procedure and instructions are standardisesd
What is a field experiment?
An experiment conducted in more natural surroundings - the IV is directly manipulated by the experimenter to observe the effect on the DV.
Strength of field experiment ?
fewer demand characteristics – participants are less likely to guess the aim, as they are in a more natural environment.
High ecological validity – behaviour is more realistic and generalisable to real life.
weaknesses of field experiment?
Low internal validity – less control over extraneous variables, as it is a natural and less controlled setting.
May be unethical – participants might not give informed consent or know they’re being studied.
What is the difference between a lab and quasi experiment?
Both are conducted in controlled environments, but in lab experiments the researcher allocates participants to conditions. In quasi experiments, this is based on a pre-existing difference (e.g. phobia), so the IV is not manipulated.
