Types of experiment

• Laboratory experiments

  An experiment that takes place in a controlled environment where environmental extraneous factors can be controlled
• Laboratory experiments - strengths

  • Its easier to establish a cause - effect relationship leading to high internal validity
  • Standardised procedure - increases replicability
• Laboratory experiments weaknesses

  • Use of artificial tasks - lacks ecological validity
  • Demand characteristics - lower external validity
• Field experiments

  An experiment in a natural setting away from a lab