experimental method

• What does the experimental method involve?

  Manipulation of an independent variable
• What is the aim of a study?

  A general statement of the research purpose
• How is a hypothesis defined?

  A testable statement about variable relationships
• What distinguishes a directional hypothesis?

  It states the direction of the relationship
• What is a non-directional hypothesis?

  It does not specify the direction of difference
• What are variables in an investigation?

  Things that can vary or change
• What is an independent variable?

  Manipulated aspect of the experimental situation
• What is a dependent variable?

  The variable measured by the researcher
• What does operationalisation mean?

  Defining variables for measurement
• What is the aim of the energy drink study?

  • To investigate if energy drinks increase talkativeness
• What is the hypothesis for the energy drink study?

  • Drinking speedupp causes increased talkativeness
• What is a directional hypothesis in the context of the study?

  It predicts specific differences in talkativeness
• How do researchers decide which type of hypothesis to use?

  Based on previous research or theory
• Why is a directional hypothesis chosen for the energy drink study?

  Effects of caffeine and sugar are well-documented
• What is the relationship between independent and dependent variables in an experiment?

  IV is manipulated; DV is measured
• What must remain constant in a properly run experiment?

  All other variables affecting the DV
• What are the levels of the independent variable in the study?

  • Control condition: no speedupp
  • Experimental condition: drinking speedupp
• What is the importance of a well-written hypothesis?

  It clarifies the IV and DV in the study
• What is operationalisation in psychological research?

  • Making variables measurable
  • Defining fuzzy concepts clearly
• What is the main task for researchers regarding variables?

  To ensure variables are measurable