Final answer:
The considerations in the scope of trials involving 'Surrogate Variables' include the variables being studied, the treatments applied, participant selection criteria, potential lurking variables, and the use of blinding. It is important to choose appropriate variables, randomly assign participants, and address lurking variables to ensure the validity of the study.
Step-by-step explanation:
The considerations in the scope of trials in terms of 'Surrogate Variables' include:
a. Explanatory and Response Variables:
The explanatory variable is the factor being manipulated or controlled by the researcher, while the response variable is the outcome or effect that is measured or observed. In the study, the explanatory variable could be the type of treatment given to participants, such as driving without distraction or texting and driving simultaneously. The response variable could be the participants' reaction time or ability to stay focused.
b. Treatments:
The treatments refer to the different conditions or interventions that are applied to the experimental units. In this case, the treatments would be driving without distraction and texting and driving simultaneously.
c. Participant Selection:
When selecting participants, factors like age, gender, and driving experience should be considered to ensure a diverse and representative sample. It is important to select participants who meet the specific criteria for the study and obtain their informed consent.
d. Randomization:
Random assignment of participants to treatment groups is crucial to minimize bias and confounding variables. However, in the given scenario of texting and driving simultaneously, it would not be ethical or safe to assign participants to that group, as it poses risks.
e. Lurking Variables:
Lurking variables are additional factors that may interfere with the study and confound the results. In this case, factors like driving experience, familiarity with technology, or prior texting while driving behavior could be lurking variables.
f. Blinding:
Blinding can be used in this study by keeping the participants unaware of which treatment group they are assigned to. This can help prevent biases or placebo effects.