Vocabulary
An unwanted variable that varies systematically with the IV, confusing the results.
What is a Confounding Variable?
This type of research focuses on numerical data and statistics.
What is Quantitative Research?
The only research method that allows for cause-and-effect inferences.
What is an Experiment?
A technique where every member of the target population has an equal chance of selection.
What is Random Sampling?
When participants guess the aim of the study and change their behavior to help or hinder.
What are Demand Characteristics?
The process of defining a vague concept (like aggression) into measurable behaviors.
What is Operationalization?
Interviews, observations, and case studies are key methods for this type of research.
What is Qualitative Research?
The way that participants are allocated to conditions in a true experiment.
What is randomly?
This type of sampling involves recruiting easily available participants, such as university students.
What is Convenience Sampling?
Natural changes occurring inside the participant over time, such as hunger, fatigue, or aging.
What is Maturation Bias?
A statistical association between two variables where no manipulation occurs.
What is a Correlation?
The extent to which we can make sweeping statements about the results of a research study beyond the study itself.
What is Generalizability?
An experimental design where the same participants take part in all conditions.
What is a Repeated Measures Design?
This theory-driven sampling method ensures essential characteristics (like age or GPA) are represented proportionally.
What is Stratified Sampling?
The threat posed when participants drop out of a study, leaving a biased sample behind.
What is Mortality (or Attrition)?
The extent to which a study's findings can be generalized to real-life settings.
What is Ecological Validity?
An example of this type of research would be a public opinion survey. We ask questions (e.g., “Do you support the current policies of the president?”) and we are interested in the distribution of answers to this particular question.
What is a Quantitative Descriptive Study?
A design strategy used to prevent order effects (like fatigue) in Repeated Measures designs.
What is Counterbalancing?
This concept asks: Can we generalize from the sample to the target population?
What is Population Validity?
A design where neither the participant nor the researcher knows who is in the control group.
What is a Double-Blind Design?
The consistency of a measure (e.g., getting the same result twice).
What is Reliability?
This approach seeks to establish "universal laws" applicable to large groups.
What is the Nomothetic Approach?
The problem that arises when the controls are so good that the researcher can no longer predict behaviour in a natural environment.
What is low ecological validity?
This type of experiment is conducted in a natural, real-life setting and has high ecological validity.
What is a Field Experiment?
This bias occurs when outside events (like a natural disaster) happen during the study and influence the participants.
What is History Bias?