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T he features of an experiment.
An experiment is a method used to study how one variable affects another under controlled conditions. Knowledge of different experiment types, such as laboratory and field experiments, is not required.
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CambridgeIGCSEPsychologyResearch methods
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T he features of an experiment. outcomes21 objectives
- An experiment is a method used to study how one variable affects another under controlled conditions. Knowledge of different experiment types, such as laboratory and field experiments, is not required.
- Apply your understanding of experiments to new situations.
- The independent variable is the one that is manipulated in an experiment and can have multiple conditions or levels.
- The dependent variable is the one that is measured in an experiment, which can be assessed through various methods such as tests, observations, questionnaires, and interviews.
- Apply your understanding of independent and dependent variables to new situations.
- Operationalisation involves defining a variable so that it can be accurately measured or observed, whether it is manipulated (IV) or measured (DV).
- Apply your understanding of how to operationalise variables to new situations.
- Experimental design refers to how participants are assigned to different conditions in an experiment. Knowledge of matched pairs design is not required.
- Apply your understanding of experimental designs to new situations. Knowledge of mixed experimental designs is not required.
- In a repeated measures design, the same participants take part in all conditions of the experiment. Counterbalancing is used to change the order of conditions to minimize the effects of extraneous variables.
- Apply your understanding of repeated measures designs to new situations.
- In an independent measures design, different participants are assigned to each condition of the experiment, with each participant experiencing only one level of the independent variable. Random allocation ensures each participant has an equal chance of being assigned to any condition.
- Apply your understanding of independent measures designs to new situations.
- Experimental conditions are the different levels of the independent variable that are manipulated during an experiment.
- Apply your understanding of experimental conditions to new situations.
- Experimental groups are defined as the participants who experience the experimental conditions.
- Control groups are defined as participants who do not experience the experimental conditions and serve as a comparison group.
- Apply your understanding of experimental groups and control groups to new situations.
- An extraneous variable is any variable other than the independent variable that can influence the dependent variable in an experiment.
- Control refers to the measures taken by researchers to minimize or maintain the influence of extraneous variables constant.
- Apply your understanding of extraneous variables and controls to new situations.
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