Short Answer

A researcher is planning a correlational study where participants complete a computerized backward digit span task and a computerized risky decision-making task in a controlled laboratory. Explain how the researcher could modify this specific setup to turn it into a true experiment.

Question: A researcher is planning a correlational study where participants complete a computerized backward digit span task and a computerized risky decision-making task in a controlled laboratory. Explain how the researcher could modify this specific setup to turn it into a true experiment.

Sample answer: To turn this study into an experiment, the researcher must manipulate an independent variable rather than just measuring both variables. For example, the researcher could manipulate the difficulty of the backward digit span task (e.g., low memory load vs. high memory load) as an independent variable, and then measure its effect on the participants' risky decision-making scores.

Key points:

  • Manipulate an independent variable instead of only measuring variables.
  • Create conditions for one task (e.g., high vs. low memory load in the backward digit span task).
  • Measure the effect of this manipulation on the second variable (risky decision-making scores).

Rubric: The response must propose manipulating one of the variables (like digit span load) as an independent variable and measuring its effect on the other (decision-making task), rather than just measuring both variables.

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Updated 2026-05-27

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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