Types of experiments

Laboratory expirement

An experiment that is carried out in a controlled environment where one variable is mannipulated (IV) to measure the effect of another variable (DV)

Field experiments

IV is manipulated in an everyday setting -> the researcher goes to the participants

Natural experiment

Reseacher has no control over IV instead somthing or someone else varies the IV

Quasi-experiment

IV based on an existing difference bewtween people (eg age or gender) and cannot be changed

Laboratory experiments pros+cons

Pros:

• High control over IV

• Easy replication

Cons:

• Lacks generalisability

• Ps know they are being tested

• Low mundane realism

Natural experiment pros+cons

Pros:

• Provide oppurtunities for research which otherwise may have not been undertaken

• High external validity

Cons:

• The natural events occur rarely

• Ps cannpt be randomly allocated

• Research may cause unnatural behaviour

Field experiments pros+cons

Pros:

• High mundane realism

Cons:

• Lack of control over EVs

• Ethical issues over consent

• No replication

Quasi-Experiment pros+cons

Pros:

• Controlled variables

• Easy replication

Cons:

• IV isnt deliberatly changed therefore conection between the IV and DV cannot be proved

• Ps cant be randomly allocated