A researcher uses a manipulated independent variable in her experiment. This means she
A) conducts her research in a laboratory.
B) uses comparison groups.
C) makes her prediction before conducting the study.
D) randomly assigns participants to conditions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Using a manipulated independent variable means that the researcher is actively changing the variable to see if it has an effect on the dependent variable. Randomly assigning participants to different conditions is a common method for manipulating the independent variable in order to test cause-and-effect relationships. Conducting the research in a laboratory, using comparison groups, and making predictions before conducting the study are not necessarily related to using a manipulated independent variable.

A Researcher Uses a Manipulated Independent Variable in Her Experiment