What varies of changes within an investigation. Variables are generally used in experiments to determine if changes in one thing results in changes to another.
What is the Independent Variable? The variable that is manipulated by the researcher or changes naturally so the effect of the DV can be measured.
What is the Dependent variable? The Variable that is Measured by the Researcher. Any effect on the DV should be by the change in the IV.
Operationalisation of Variables?
Variables need to be clearly defined.
This turns the variable into measurable form.
This can be more difficult for certain variables eg anger levels.
4 main types of Experiments
Laboratory
Field
Natural
Quasi
What is Operationalisation?
Clearly defining variables in terms of how they can be measured.
What is a Non-directional hypothesis?
Does not state the direction of the difference or relationship.
What is a Hypothesis?
A Clear, precise, testable statement that states the relationship between the variables to be investigated. Stated at the outset of any study.
What is the Experimental method?
Involves the manipulation of an IV to measure the effect on the DV. Experiments may be laboratory, field, natural or quasi.
What is an Aim?
A general statement of what the researcher intends to investigate, the purpose of the study.
