In a between-subjects experimental design
A) participants work in pairs or small groups to complete the experimental task.
B) a participant takes part in either the experimental or control condition, but not both.
C) the researcher uses nonrandom assignment of participants to conditions of the independent variable.
D) each participant takes part in both the experimental and control condition.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a between-subjects experimental design, participants are randomly assigned to either the experimental or control condition. This ensures that the groups are equivalent at the outset of the study and eliminates potential confounding variables. Each participant takes part in only one condition, either the experimental or control, but not both. Choice A is incorrect because it describes a within-subjects design. Choice C is incorrect because nonrandom assignment can create biased samples. Choice D is incorrect because it describes a within-subjects design, in which each participant takes part in both conditions.

In a Between-Subjects Experimental Design