the experimental method

• an aim is a statement of what the researcher intends to find out
• a hypothesis is a precise and testable statement of prediction
• the independent variable is what you change in a study
• the dependent variable is what you measure in the study
• both variables must be operationalised
• operationalisation is to make something measurable
• extraneous variables do not vary systematically with the independent variable but can affect the dependent variable
• standardised procedures are where all participants experience the study in the same way - this is necessary in order to repeat the study