The experimental method

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  • Created by: Harry
  • Created on: 11-01-15 17:44
What is the variable that we don't keep constant and look at?
The independent variable
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What is the variable that is always the result/outcome?
The dependent variable
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What is the most common form of psychological experiment?
The use of an experiment/control group
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Can you evaluate on lab experiments?
Pro: only means by which cause and effect can be established, allows for the precise control of variables and can be replicated. Cons: not typical to real life, not possible to control all variables, ethical implications
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What are two types of observational methods?
Naturalistic observation: observing behavior in a natural environment, observer doesn't interfere with behavior and is unobtrusive. Controlled: involves researcher setting up the situation to be observed; don't necessarily take place in the lab.
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What are the two types of observation?
Overt and covert observation: overt being where the participants are aware that they're being observed, covert being when participants are unaware
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What is participant/non-participant observation?
Participant: where the researcher becomes involved in the situation, Non-participant: the exact opposite
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What are the advantages of the 'field experiment'?
Pro's: takes place in a natural setting and so usually has greater mundane realism, may have greater generalisability to real life (external validity), control over IV so cause and effect can be established.
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What are the disadvantages of the 'field experiment'?
Cons: field experiments cannot involve ethical implications, less control in a field experiment => confounding variables may be causing effect on the DV rather than the IV
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Card 2

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What is the variable that is always the result/outcome?

Back

The dependent variable

Card 3

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What is the most common form of psychological experiment?

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Card 4

Front

Can you evaluate on lab experiments?

Back

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Card 5

Front

What are two types of observational methods?

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