223k views
3 votes
Which variable measures the effects of the independent variable?

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

The variable that measures the effects of the independent variable in an experiment is known as the dependent variable. It changes in response to manipulation of the independent variable, which is the factor being altered or controlled in the study.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of scientific experiments, the variable that measures the effects of the independent variable is called the dependent variable. The independent variable, often referred to as the manipulated variable, is the factor that is changed or controlled by the researcher to observe its effects. On the other hand, the dependent variable is what the researcher measures to see the impact of the independent variable.

For example, in a study on how technology use in the classroom affects learning outcomes, the type of learning (e.g., using a computer program vs. in-person instruction) would be the independent variable. The learning performance of the participants, which is measured, would be the dependent variable. This relationship is essential in experimental studies to demonstrate causation and test hypotheses about the influence of one variable upon another.

User DavidStein
by
7.7k points