Short Answer

A researcher is designing an experiment where participants complete a spatial reasoning puzzle. During pilot testing, participants frequently ask, "What should I do if I get stuck?" Apply the strategy of anticipating participant questions to draft: (1) a proactive instruction to be added to the initial standardized protocol, and (2) a reactive, pre-scripted standard answer that experimenters should use if the question is asked.

Question: A researcher is designing an experiment where participants complete a spatial reasoning puzzle. During pilot testing, participants frequently ask, "What should I do if I get stuck?" Apply the strategy of anticipating participant questions to draft: (1) a proactive instruction to be added to the initial standardized protocol, and (2) a reactive, pre-scripted standard answer that experimenters should use if the question is asked.

Sample answer: (1) Proactive instruction addition: 'If you get stuck on a puzzle, please continue to try your best until the time limit is reached, as the experimenter cannot provide hints.' (2) Reactive pre-scripted answer: 'If you get stuck, please do your best to solve it; I cannot give any hints.'

Key points:

  • Draft a proactive addition to the standardized instructions addressing what to do when stuck.
  • Draft a reactive, pre-scripted standard answer for the experimenter to deliver when the question is asked.
  • Ensure both responses aim to prevent unintended variation in how experimenters interact with participants.

Feedback: An acceptable answer must provide two clear, concrete applications of the strategy: a proactive addition to the initial instructions and a reactive, pre-scripted standard answer for the experimenter to deliver if asked. Both should aim to standardize interactions and prevent unintended variation.

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Updated 2026-05-26

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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