Question

A manager wanted to test whether the amount of noise in a clothing factory affected how

much work employees accomplished. Three groups of employees were tested every day
over a 5-day period. All three groups did the same type of work, they were all equally trained
to do the work, they used the same equipment, and they were tested the same time of day.
Group one was given headphones that blocked out all of the outside noise. Group two was
given headphones that blocked out some of the noise. Group three was not given anything
to block out the noise. The number of shirts made by the employees in one hour was
determined.
What is the independent/manipulated variable?
the amoutn of noise
the number of shirts made by the employee
the type of music the employees listen to while they work.
The amount of training employees need.

Answer 1

When seeking to determine the number of shirts made by employees subjected to noise with and without the use of headphones, the independent variable is the amount of noise.

Step-by-step explanation:

During an investigation, the independent variable may be subject to change, in order to observe the effect it will have on the dependent variable.

In the case presented, the amount of noise to which employees are exposed represents the independent variable, which is modified by the use of headphones that block all or part of the noise.

The productivity —expressed in the number of shirts made— can be expected to be higher for employees not exposed to noise.

Other options do not apply because:

• The number of shirts made by the employee. Dependent variable .
• The type of music the employees listen to while they work or the amount of training employees need. These are not the variables studied.