Because quantitative research is rooted in the scientific method, specific terminology for that process must be used. These terms are defined as:
- An independent variable is manipulated in a study. It can be any aspect of the environment that is investigated for the purpose of examining its influence on the dependent variable.
- A dependent variable is measured in a study. This variable is not manipulated; measurements are empirical (numerical).
- An experimental or treatment group is the group that receives the experimental treatment or manipulation, and differs from the control group in the dependent variable.
- A control group is the group is used to produce comparisons. They provide a baseline performance with which to compare the experimental or treatment group’s performance.
- In a random assignment for a study, each subject has an equal probability of being selected for either the treatment or control group
- In a double blind assignment for a study, neither the subject nor the experimenter knows whether the subject is the treatment or control group.
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