Final answer:
The experiment conducted by Jamie is flawed because it lacks randomization, introducing potential bias and confounding variables that can compromise the validity of the results.
Step-by-step explanation:
Randomization is a fundamental principle in experimental design that ensures the groups being compared are comparable at the start of the experiment. Jamie's approach of assigning participants based on their arrival time before or after noon introduces systematic bias and does not randomly allocate participants to the treatment and control groups.
This lack of randomization means that any observed differences between the groups cannot be confidently attributed to the treatment itself, as other variables related to arrival time may be influencing the outcomes.
In a well-designed experiment, random assignment helps control for extraneous variables, balancing the groups and increasing the internal validity of the study. Without randomization, there is a risk of confounding variables, where factors other than the treatment may be responsible for any observed effects. Researchers should prioritize randomization to ensure the robustness of their experimental design and the credibility of the study's findings.