Experiment and Variables in Research

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

• Experiment

• Survey

• Observation

• Case Study

Study in which the observer records only a limited range of behaviors.

• Structured observation

• Naturalistic observation

• Participant observation

• Case study

A researcher who does not become involved in the situation being studied, often watching through one-way glass or keeping apart from the social group.

• Non-participant observer

• Participant observer

• Active observer

• Engaged researcher

Keeping the procedures and materials the same between studies to verify results or to enable other studies to use the same techniques to answer related questions.

• Replication

• Validation

• Reproducibility

• Verification

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

• Random allocation

• Systematic sampling

• Stratified sampling

• Convenience sampling

Questionnaire, interview, or test items that produce qualitative data. Participants give full and detailed answers in their own words, with no choices or categories given.

• Closed questions

• Open questions

• Multiple choice questions

• Rating scale questions

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

• Experimental condition

• Control condition

• Independent variable

• Dependent variable

An investigation that looks for a causal relationship by manipulating an independent variable, conducted in a natural environment for participants.

• Laboratory Experiment

• Field Experiment

• Case Study

• Survey

A researcher who watches from the perspective of being part of the social setting.

• Participant observer

• Non-participant observer

• Field researcher

• Laboratory researcher

Items included in a questionnaire, interview, or test to disguise the aim of the study by hiding the important questions among irrelevant ones, so that participants are less likely to alter their behavior by figuring out the aims.

• Filler questions

• Leading questions

• Closed questions

• Open-ended questions