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Based on the concept of experimental control, define what this process entails and state its primary purpose. Additionally, identify the two broad categories of extraneous factors mentioned that can have an unintended effect on the dependent variable if not controlled.
Question: Based on the concept of experimental control, define what this process entails and state its primary purpose. Additionally, identify the two broad categories of extraneous factors mentioned that can have an unintended effect on the dependent variable if not controlled.
Sample answer: Experimental control is the process by which researchers hold extraneous variables constant throughout a study. Its primary purpose is to isolate the independent variable so that researchers can confidently attribute changes in the dependent variable to the experimental manipulation. The two categories of extraneous factors that can affect the dependent variable are individual participant differences and situational contexts.
Key points:
- Definition of experimental control as holding extraneous variables constant.
- Explanation of the primary purpose: to isolate the independent variable.
- Enabling researchers to confidently attribute dependent variable changes to the independent variable manipulation.
- Identification of individual participant differences as a category of extraneous factors.
- Identification of situational contexts as a category of extraneous factors.
Rubric: To earn full points, the response must: 1) Correctly define experimental control as holding extraneous variables constant throughout a study. 2) State that the primary purpose is to isolate the independent variable and attribute changes in the dependent variable to the experimental manipulation. 3) Correctly identify individual participant differences and situational contexts as the two categories of extraneous factors.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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