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Based on the definition of an experiment, explain how the psychologist's proposed experiment differs from their initial observation in terms of the relationship it aims to establish, and what method they must employ to support their final claims.
Case context: A psychologist studies the connection between sleep duration and cognitive performance. While they have observed a strong correlation, they want to elevate this to an experiment to make stronger claims about sleep causing performance changes.
Question: Based on the definition of an experiment, explain how the psychologist's proposed experiment differs from their initial observation in terms of the relationship it aims to establish, and what method they must employ to support their final claims.
Sample answer: The proposed experiment is designed specifically to determine if the relationship between sleep duration and cognitive performance is causal in nature, rather than just an observation. To support these causal conclusions, the psychologist must utilize statistical analysis.
Key points:
- The experiment aims to determine if the relationship between the two variables is causal in nature.
- The experiment goes beyond simple correlation or observation of a relationship.
- Statistical analysis must be utilized to support the causal conclusions.
Rubric: Students should demonstrate comprehension by explaining that the experiment aims to establish a causal relationship between variables (sleep and performance) and that statistical analysis is needed to support the causal conclusion.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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Independent Variable
Dependent Variable
Extraneous Variable
Experimental Manipulation
Within-Subjects Experiment
Between-Subjects Experiment
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