Identifying Variables in Research

A university tests whether handwritten notes lead to better retention than typed notes. What is the independent variable?

• Information retention

• Study method

• Class size

• Instructor experience

A university tests whether handwritten notes lead to better retention than typed notes. What is the dependent variable?

• Note-taking method

• Number of students

• Information retention

• Lecture length

A psychologist studies whether mindfulness meditation reduces stress levels in adults. What is the independent variable?

• Age of participants

• Mindfulness meditation practice

• Stress levels

• Diet

A psychologist studies whether mindfulness meditation reduces stress levels in adults. What is the dependent variable?

• Stress levels

• Mindfulness meditation practice

• Hours of sleep

• Exercise frequency

A nutritionist tests whether increasing protein intake leads to greater muscle gain in athletes. What is the independent variable?

• Exercise routine

• Muscle gain

• Protein intake

• Gender

A nutritionist tests whether increasing protein intake leads to greater muscle gain in athletes. What is the dependent variable?

• Diet

• Muscle gain

• Age

• Protein intake

A school administrator examines whether reducing class sizes improves student performance on standardized tests. What is the independent variable?

• Class size

• Standardized test scores

• School funding

• Teacher experience

A school administrator examines whether reducing class sizes improves student performance on standardized tests. What is the dependent variable?

• Class size

• Student behavior

• Standardized test scores

• Attendance

A fitness coach investigates whether high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is more effective than steady-state cardio for weight loss. What is the independent variable?

• Diet

• Exercise duration

• Type of exercise (HIIT vs. steady-state cardio)

• Weight loss

A fitness coach investigates whether high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is more effective than steady-state cardio for weight loss. What is the dependent variable?

• Exercise type

• Weight loss

• Age of participants

• Workout frequency