#1
Why is it important to have a control group in an experiment?
To compare the experimental group with a baseline condition
ExplanationProvide a standard of comparison to assess the effect of the independent variable.
#2
Why is it important to conduct a pilot study before implementing the main experiment?
To identify and address potential issues with the research design
ExplanationTest the procedures and methods to refine the study design and address any unforeseen problems.
#3
Why is it important to use random sampling in experimental research?
To ensure that the sample is representative of the population
ExplanationMaximize the likelihood that the sample accurately reflects the population, enhancing generalizability.
#4
What is the primary goal of experimental design?
To control extraneous variables
ExplanationControl extraneous variables to isolate the effect of the independent variable.
#5
Which of the following is a key characteristic of a true experimental design?
Random assignment
ExplanationAssign participants randomly to experimental and control groups to minimize bias.
#6
What is the purpose of random assignment in experimental research?
To control for extraneous variables
ExplanationMinimize the influence of participant characteristics by assigning them randomly to groups.
#7
What is a confounding variable in experimental research?
An extraneous variable that systematically varies with the independent variable
ExplanationAn additional variable that affects the dependent variable and is not controlled for, leading to inaccurate conclusions.
#8
What is a placebo in experimental research?
An inactive substance or treatment that resembles a real treatment
ExplanationUsed as a control to isolate the psychological effects of receiving a treatment.
#9
What is internal validity in experimental research?
The degree to which changes in the dependent variable are due to the manipulation of the independent variable
ExplanationEnsure that changes in the dependent variable are caused by the independent variable, not extraneous factors.
#10
How does a researcher control for order effects in a repeated measures design?
By counterbalancing the order of treatments across participants
ExplanationRandomly assign different sequences of treatments to participants to eliminate order bias.
#11
In a factorial design, what does each factor represent?
A level of the independent variable
ExplanationDifferent conditions or values of the independent variable being studied simultaneously.
#12
What is the difference between internal validity and external validity?
Internal validity refers to the extent to which the study accurately represents the population, while external validity refers to the degree to which the study's results can be applied to other situations or populations.
ExplanationInternal validity ensures accurate conclusions within the study, while external validity concerns generalizability to other contexts or populations.
#13
What is the difference between a between-subjects design and a within-subjects design?
A between-subjects design involves studying different groups of participants, while a within-subjects design involves studying the same group of participants under different conditions.
ExplanationBetween-subjects compares different groups, while within-subjects measures the same group's response to different conditions.