Author Question: Explain the advantages of a between-subjects experimental design over a within-subjects ... (Read 87 times)

sammy

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 818
Explain the advantages of a between-subjects experimental design over a within-subjects design.

Question 2

What are demand characteristics and why are they a concern for researchers? Discuss four ways of reducing demand characteristics.



uniquea123

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 311
Answer to Question 1

A within-subjects design involves repeated measures because with each treatment the same subject is measured. In contrast, a between-subjects design measure each dependent variable only once for each subject. Between-subjects designs are usually advantageous although they are usually more costly. The validity of between-subjects designs is usually higher because by applying only one treatment combination to one subject, demand characteristics are greatly reduced. When a subject sees multiple conditions, he or she is more likely to guess what the study is about. In addition, statistical analyses of between-subjects designs are simpler than within-subjects designs. This also means the results are easier to report and explain to management.

Answer to Question 2

The term demand characteristic refers to an experimental design element that unintentionally provides subjects with hints about the research hypothesis. Knowledge of the experimental hypothesis creates a confound known as a demand effect. Demand characteristics are aspects of an experiment that demand (encourage) that the subjects respond in a particular way, hence being a source of systematic error. Ways of reducing demand characteristics include the following:
(1) Use an experimental disguise.
(2) Isolate experimental subjects.
(3) Use a blind experimental administrator.
(4) Administer only one experimental treatment level to each subject.



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question

uniquea123

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 311

 

Did you know?

After 5 years of being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, one every three patients will no longer be able to work.

Did you know?

It is difficult to obtain enough calcium without consuming milk or other dairy foods.

Did you know?

Bacteria have flourished on the earth for over three billion years. They were the first life forms on the planet.

Did you know?

Illicit drug use costs the United States approximately $181 billion every year.

Did you know?

When blood is exposed to air, it clots. Heparin allows the blood to come in direct contact with air without clotting.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library