Experiment and Variables in Research

Front

An investigation that seeks a causal relationship, in which an independent variable is manipulated and is expected to cause changes in the dependent variable.

Back

Experiment

Front

The factor under investigation in an experiment that is manipulated to create two or more conditions (levels) and is expected to be responsible for changes in the dependent variable.

Back

Independent Variable

Front

The factor in an experiment that is measured and is expected to change under the influence of the independent variable.

Back

Dependent Variable

Front

A variable that either acts randomly, affecting the dependent variable at different levels of the independent variable, or systematically, obscuring the effect of the independent variable. It is also called a confounding variable.

Back

Uncontrolled Variable

Front

One or more situations in the experiment that represent different levels of the IV and are compared to each other or to the control condition.

Back

Experimental condition

Front

A level of the IV in an experiment where the IV is absent. It is compared to one or more experimental conditions.

Back

Control condition

Front

The way in which participants are allocated to levels of the IV.

Back

Experimental design

Front

An experimental design in which a different group of participants is used for each level of the IV.

Back

Independent measures design

Front

The experimental situation that gives away the aims, causing participants to change their behavior to match their beliefs about what is supposed to happen, reducing the validity of the study.

Back

Demand characteristics

Front

Reduces the effects of confounding variables, such as individual differences, by ensuring each person has an equal chance of being in any condition.

Back

Random allocation