PSY 2007 Assignment Independent and Dependent Variables
PSY 2007 Assignment Independent and Dependent Variables
Addressed the following:
Identified the independent and dependent variables in this study. For the independent variables, explained the possible levels of the variables or the range of values.
Explained the relationship between the sample and the population in the study.
Identified the scales of measurement for each of the variables. Explained why the scale of measurement is appropriate for this study.
Provided the calculation for (ΣX)/n for the students’ evaluations (on a scale of 1 to 10).
Provided the calculation of (Σ(X + 5))/n for the students’ evaluations (on a scale of 5 to 15). (3 points)
Described the formula for the calculation if each student gives the professor one point higher.
Wrote in a clear, concise, and organized manner; demonstrated ethical scholarship in the accurate representation and attribution of sources (i.e., APA format); and displayed accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Variables are given a special name that only applies to experimental investigations. One is called the dependent variable and the other the independent variable.
The independent variable is the variable the experimenter manipulates or changes, and is assumed to have a direct effect on the dependent variable. For example, allocating participants to either drug or placebo conditions (independent variable) in order to measure any changes in the intensity of their anxiety (dependent variable).
The dependent variable is the variable being tested and measured in an experiment, and is ‘dependent’ on the independent variable. An example of a dependent variable is depression symptoms, which depends on the independent variable (type of therapy).
In an experiment, the researcher is looking for the possible effect on the dependent variable that might be caused by changing the independent variable.