Experiments

• What is an experiment in research?

  An experiment is when the researcher deliberately manipulates the independent variable to see the effect on the dependent variable.
• What conclusion can a researcher draw from an experiment?


  A researcher can draw a causal conclusion confirming whether the independent variable has caused the dependent variable to change.
• What do researchers compare in an experiment?


  Researchers compare the results of one condition of the experiment with the results of another condition.
• What are the "conditions" of an experiment?


  The "conditions" of the experiment are the different levels of the independent variable.
• Where do experiments typically take place?


  Experiments normally take place in a controlled environment, called a laboratory experiment, or in a real-life environment, called a field experiment.
• What are the advantages of conducting experiments?

  • Allows assumption of cause and effect due to manipulation of the IV.
  • Easier control of extraneous variables, leading to greater internal validity.
• What are the disadvantages of conducting experiments?


  • Controlled environments can be artificial, leading to low ecological validity.
  • More ethical issues compared to other methods like observations and surveys.
  • Difficult to control confounding variables in real-life settings, lowering internal validity.
• What is a quasi experiment?

  A quasi experiment is not a true experiment because the independent variable has not been deliberately manipulated.
• When would a researcher use a quasi experiment?

  A researcher would use a quasi experiment when it would be unethical or impractical to manipulate the independent variable.
• How are participants assigned in a quasi experiment?


  Participants are not randomly assigned; they are placed into a group.
• What is a natural experiment?

  A natural experiment occurs when it is not possible or practical to manipulate the independent variable.
• What are difference studies in quasi experiments?

  Difference studies are a type of quasi experiment where the independent variable is a condition that exists, not something that varies.
• What are the advantages of quasi experiments?

  • Allows research where it would be unethical or impractical to manipulate the IV.
  • Enables study of 'real' problems, such as the effects of stress on health.
  • More likely to be realistic and ecologically valid.
• What are the disadvantages of quasi experiments?

  • Cannot assume the IV was responsible for causing any change in the DV.
  • Other variables may also cause the DV to change.
  • Example: Stress may not directly cause heart disease due to unhealthy lifestyles.