Types of Experiment Flashcards
What are lab experiments?
-an experiment that takes place in a controlled environment
-researcher manipulates the IV and records the effect on DV
-strict control of EV
What is a field experiment?
-an experiment that takes place in a natural setting
-researcher manipulates the IV
-records effect on DV
What is a natural experiment?
-an experiment where the change in the IV is not brought about by the researcher
-but would’ve happened even if the researcher had not been there
-records the effect on a DV they have decided on
What is a quasi experiment?
-a study that is almost an experiment but lacks key aspects
-IV has not been determined by anyone
-the variables simply exist
What are the strengths of lab experiments?
-high control over CV and EV
-high internal validity
-replication is more possible
What are the limitations of lab experiments?
-lack generalisability
-may be artificial and unlike everyday life
-low external validity
-demand characteristics
-low mundane realism
What are the strengths of field experiments?
-high mundane release
-more valid and authentic
What are the limitations of field experiments?
-loss of control of CV and EV
-cause and effect is more difficult to establish
-hard to replicate
-ethical issues - invasion of privacy
What are the strengths of natural experiments?
-produce opportunities that may not otherwise be undertaken for ethical reasons
-high external validity as they involve real world issues
What are the limitations of natural experiments?
-event may happen very rarely - reducing the opportunities for research
-participants may not be randomly allocated to experimental conditions
-less sure whether the IV affected the DV
What are the strengths and limitations of quasi experiments?
-carried out in controlled conditions
-randomly allocation to conditions = CV
