If a researcher performs an experiment where half of the participants perform a memory task in the presence of distracting noise such as a jack hammer) while the other half do not, the researcher has
A) Assigned the independent variable of memory task outcome
B) Manipulated the dependent variable of memory task outcome
C) Manipulated the independent variable of noise level
D) Assigned the dependent variable of noise level

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The researcher has manipulated the independent variable of noise level by having one group perform the memory task with distracting noise and the other group perform the memory task without distracting noise. The dependent variable being studied is the memory task outcome, which is not manipulated by the researcher. Therefore, choices A and B are incorrect as they attribute manipulation to the dependent variable rather than the independent variable. Choice D is also incorrect as the researcher did not assign the dependent variable of noise level, but instead manipulated the independent variable of noise level.

If a Researcher Performs an Experiment Where Half of the Participants