Independent Variable (IV): A variable deliberately manipulated or varied by the researcher to observe its effect on the dependent variable (DV). It is the cause in cause-and-effect relationships (source: research methodology).
Dependent Variable (DV): The property that is measured in an experiment, which depends on the IV. Its value is expected to change in response to the IV (source: research methodology).
Extraneous Variable: Any variable other than the IV that could influence the DV, potentially confounding results. When controlled, it becomes a controlled variable (source: research methodology).
Confounding Variable: An extraneous variable that affects the DV and is not controlled, leading to invalid conclusions about the relationship between IV and DV (source: research methodology).
Operationalisation: The process of defining variables in measurable terms, specifying how IV and DV are manipulated or measured in a study (source: research methodology).
1. What is a research variable?
2. Who are the authors associated with foundational work on experimental research design in psychology?
3. Who are the authors associated with foundational work on experimental research design in psychology?
Research variables — definition?
Elements manipulated or measured in a study.
Research design types — role?
Determine how variables are studied to establish causality or relationships.
Research variables — definition?
Factors manipulated or measured in studies.
Research design types — role?
Outline how studies are planned and conducted.
Independent Variable — role?
Manipulated to observe effects on DV.
Dependent Variable — property?
Measured outcome affected by IV.
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