psychology a level
Laboratory experiments: An artificial environment with tight controls over variables.
A laboratory experiment is a conducted under highly controlled conditions. It is the most commonly used when conducting experiments. However this only happens when the research manipulated the independent variable to see what effect it has on the dependent variable in the experiment during research. By changing the independent variable, and measuring the dependent variable, we control the confounding variables (E.V.s) others as much as possible. This allows a more reliable conclusion to be drawn up than with a non-experimental method. When the independent variable is the only variable that changes then it must be responsible for any change in the dependent variable.
Milgram 1963 -Obedience.
Advantages:
High control meaning results are less likely to be confounding
Easily can be replicated
Does not break code of ethics
Enable use of complex equipment.
Often cheaper and less time-consuming than other methods.
Disadvantages:
ecologically valid (true to real life)
Demand characteristics
Can be hard not to give away the complete aim of the study without breaking code of ethics.
Experimenter effects
Can sometimes be representing to the general target audience
Field experiments: Takes place in anywhere in a natural setting. Natural changes in independent variable are used - it is not manipulated.
A field experiment is conducted in a natural environment. That is often a situation that happens in reality. During the experiment the subjects are unaware that are taking part in a research experiment. However the independent variable is manipulated unlike in a natural lab environment. This means that field experiments will have a high ecological validity. These experiments can also take place anywhere.
Piliavin 1969 - Helping behaviour on a subway train
Advantage:
Mundane realism-i.e. can apply the results to everyday life (everyday
A laboratory experiment is a conducted under highly controlled conditions. It is the most commonly used when conducting experiments. However this only happens when the research manipulated the independent variable to see what effect it has on the dependent variable in the experiment during research. By changing the independent variable, and measuring the dependent variable, we control the confounding variables (E.V.s) others as much as possible. This allows a more reliable conclusion to be drawn up than with a non-experimental method. When the independent variable is the only variable that changes then it must be responsible for any change in the dependent variable.
Milgram 1963 -Obedience.
Advantages:
High control meaning results are less likely to be confounding
Easily can be replicated
Does not break code of ethics
Enable use of complex equipment.
Often cheaper and less time-consuming than other methods.
Disadvantages:
ecologically valid (true to real life)
Demand characteristics
Can be hard not to give away the complete aim of the study without breaking code of ethics.
Experimenter effects
Can sometimes be representing to the general target audience
Field experiments: Takes place in anywhere in a natural setting. Natural changes in independent variable are used - it is not manipulated.
A field experiment is conducted in a natural environment. That is often a situation that happens in reality. During the experiment the subjects are unaware that are taking part in a research experiment. However the independent variable is manipulated unlike in a natural lab environment. This means that field experiments will have a high ecological validity. These experiments can also take place anywhere.
Piliavin 1969 - Helping behaviour on a subway train
Advantage:
Mundane realism-i.e. can apply the results to everyday life (everyday