Compare independent variables, dependent variables, and extraneous variables. Describe two ways that researchers attempt to control extraneous variables.
Guide On Rating System
Vote
Independent variables, dependent variables, and extraneous variables are all important concepts in research design.
Independent variables are the factors or conditions that researchers intentionally manipulate or change in an experiment. They are the variables under investigation and are believed to have an effect on the outcome or dependent variable. For example, if a researcher wants to investigate the impact of study habits on academic performance, the independent variable would be the study habits.
Dependent variables, on the other hand, are the variables that researchers measure or observe for changes as a result of manipulating the independent variable. These variables depend on the independent variable. In the study habits example, the dependent variable would be the academic performance of the students.
Extraneous variables, also known as confounding variables, are variables that are not of primary interest to the researcher but can influence the dependent variable. They are unwanted variables that may introduce error, bias, or noise into the research design. For instance, in the study habits example, an extraneous variable could be the participants' level of intelligence, which could affect their academic performance regardless of their study habits.
Researchers attempt to control extraneous variables through various methods:
1. Randomization: This technique involves randomly assigning participants to different experimental conditions or groups. By doing so, the researcher ensures that any extraneous variables are distributed equally among the groups, minimizing their impact on the dependent variable. This helps to create comparable groups and increases the chances that any observed differences are due to the independent variable.
2. Statistical control: Researchers can use statistical techniques to control for the influence of extraneous variables. For example, they may include the extraneous variable as a covariate in their statistical analysis. By including the extraneous variable as a control variable, its effect on the dependent variable can be isolated, allowing for a clearer understanding of the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable.
In summary, independent variables are the factors under investigation, dependent variables are the variables being measured or observed, and extraneous variables are unwanted variables that can affect the dependent variable. Researchers control extraneous variables through methods such as randomization and statistical control.
Got a question with my answer?
Cheapmath.com is completely free!
Asking question is free.
Getting answers is free.
+99