Exam 10: Field Research

Correct Answer:

Answered by Examlex AI Copilot

The laboratory-field experiment continuum refers to the range of experimental settings in which scientific research can be conducted, from highly controlled laboratory environments to real-world field settings. This continuum allows researchers to choose the most appropriate setting for their specific research questions and goals.

Several factors define this continuum, including the level of control over variables, the degree of realism and ecological validity, the potential for generalizability of results, and the ethical considerations involved. In laboratory experiments, researchers have a high level of control over variables, allowing for precise manipulation and measurement. However, these settings may lack the realism and ecological validity of field experiments, which take place in natural or real-world environments. Field experiments offer greater external validity and the potential for generalizability to real-world situations, but they may also be more challenging to control and replicate.

Other factors that define the laboratory-field experiment continuum include the cost and feasibility of conducting research in different settings, the ethical considerations involved in manipulating variables in real-world environments, and the potential for unexpected confounding variables in field settings. Ultimately, the choice of experimental setting depends on the specific research question, the goals of the study, and the trade-offs between control and realism. Researchers must carefully consider these factors when designing and conducting experiments to ensure the validity and reliability of their findings.