Question

Which of the following statements accurately describe running a randomized, controlled experiment? Select all that apply.

(a) Subjects are randomly assigned to experimental and control groups.
(b) The experiment is conducted in a controlled environment.
(c) Only one variable is manipulated.
(d) Results can establish cause-and-effect relationships.

Answer 1

In a randomized controlled experiment, subjects are randomly assigned to control and experimental groups to test the effect of a single manipulated variable, with results that can establish cause-and-effect relationships.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a randomized controlled experiment, certain key elements are crucial for its design and interpretation:

• Subjects are indeed randomly assigned to experimental and control groups to ensure that each participant has an equal chance of being placed in either group, minimizing selection bias and ensuring the groups are comparable.
• The use of a controlled environment isn't necessary for all randomized controlled experiments, but when applicable, it helps to reduce the influence of external variables.
• Having only one variable manipulated at a time, known as the independent variable, while keeping all other variables constant, allows for a clear understanding of the effects this variable has on the dependent variable.
• Results from such experiments can indeed establish cause-and-effect relationships because the random allocation and control of variables help to isolate the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable.