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Provide a concise analytical response describing the sequence of methodological steps a researcher must take to execute a matched-groups design, and state the primary purpose of using this design instead of simple random assignment.
Question: Provide a concise analytical response describing the sequence of methodological steps a researcher must take to execute a matched-groups design, and state the primary purpose of using this design instead of simple random assignment.
Sample answer: To execute a matched-groups design, a researcher first measures participants on the dependent variable or a relevant extraneous variable. Next, they rank-order the participants based on these measurements. Finally, they randomly assign the most closely matched individuals to the different experimental conditions. The primary purpose is to guarantee that the groups are equivalent on that specific variable at the start of the study, preventing it from becoming a confounding variable.
Key points:
- Measure the dependent variable or relevant extraneous variable.
- Rank-order the participants based on the measurement.
- Randomly assign closely matched individuals to different conditions.
- Guarantee group equivalence on the specific variable.
- Prevent the variable from becoming a confounding variable.
Rubric: A full-credit response must list the three core steps: measuring the variable, rank-ordering participants, and randomly assigning matched individuals. It must also conclude that the purpose is to guarantee equivalence and prevent the variable from becoming a confound.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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Example of a Matched-Groups Design
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