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Based on the concept of equivalent groups in a between-subjects experiment, define what makes groups equivalent and identify the specific procedure researchers must use to achieve this state.
Question: Based on the concept of equivalent groups in a between-subjects experiment, define what makes groups equivalent and identify the specific procedure researchers must use to achieve this state.
Sample answer: In a between-subjects experiment, groups are considered equivalent when they are expected to be highly similar to one another because they lack systematic pre-existing differences. Researchers achieve this by utilizing random assignment to allocate participants to the different conditions.
Key points:
- Equivalent groups lack systematic pre-existing differences.
- Equivalent groups are expected to be highly similar to one another.
- Researchers utilize random assignment to allocate participants to different conditions.
Rubric: Full credit is awarded if the student defines equivalent groups as being highly similar and lacking systematic pre-existing differences (2 points) and names random assignment as the necessary procedure to allocate participants (2 points).
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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