Experiments Key Terms Test
Lab experiment - Conducted in highly controlled environments, and allow the researcher to
manipulate one variable (IV) to see the effect on another variable (DV)
Field experiment – These occur in “real world” settings. The IV is manipulated by the
experimenter and as many other variables as possible are controlled.
Natural experiment - This is when the researcher takes advantage of a pre-existing, naturally
changing, IV. This kind of experiment is called natural as the variable would have changed even if
the experimenter was not interested.
Quasi experiment - They have an IV that is based on an existing difference between people (for
example age or gender). Participants cannot be randomly assigned.
Extraneous Variable - Any variable other than the IV that may have an effect on the DV if it is not
controlled
Confounding Variable - Uncontrolled extraneous variables that negatively affect the results
Aim - A general statement of what the researcher intends to investigate; the purpose of the study
Hypothesis - A clear, precise testable statement that states the relationship between the variables
to be investigated.
Directional Hypothesis - States the direction of difference between variables. Uses the word
“increase/decrease”. Used based on previous research
Non-directional Hypothesis – Predicts “difference” between conditions, but does not state the
direction of the difference between variables.
Null Hypothesis - States “there will be no difference” between the conditions. It states that any
differences are purely due to chance
Independent Groups design - two separate groups experience two separate conditions of an
experiment
Repeated Measures design - all participants experience both conditions of an experiment
Matched Pairs design - participants are paired together on a variable relevant to the experiment.
Random Allocation – Assuring that participants have an equal chance of being in any condition
of an experiment. Attempts to evenly distribute participant characteristics across the conditions of
an experiment
Order Effects - when the order in which tasks are completed effect the study’s results, either
through practice or boredom.
Counterbalancing – ensuring that each condition of an experiment occurs first, and second, in
equal measure to control possible order effects.
Randomisation - The use of chance in order to control for the effects of bias
Standardisation - Using exactly the same procedures and instructions for all participants in the
experiment
Investigator Effects - Any effect of the investigators behaviour (conscious or unconscious) on the
research outcome (DV).
Demand Characteristics - Any cue from the researcher or research situation that may be
interpreted by participants as revealing the purpose of the investigation. This may lead the
participant to changing their behaviour (positively or negatively)
Pilot Study - a small scale trial run of the actual investigation.