Independent Variable: Presence Of A Buzzer Sound Or Not.
Sample Solution
Experiment Design with One Independent Variable (with at least two levels) and One Dependent Variable
Research Question:
What is the effect of using a reminder system on the number of times people use hand sanitizer?
Independent Variable:
Presence of a reminder system (two levels: yes or no)
Dependent Variable:
Number of times hand sanitizer is used
Level of Measurement:
Ratio
Experimental Procedure:
- Randomly assign participants to either the treatment group (reminder system) or the control group (no reminder system).
- Place hand sanitizer dispensers in a location that is easily accessible to all participants.
- In the treatment group, install a reminder system that will emit a sound or alert when a participant passes by.
- In the control group, do not install a reminder system.
- Observe and record the number of times each participant uses hand sanitizer over a period of time.
Data Analysis:
Use a statistical test, such as an independent samples t-test, to compare the number of times participants in the treatment group use hand sanitizer to the number of times participants in the control group use hand sanitizer.
Hypothesis:
Participants in the treatment group will use hand sanitizer more often than participants in the control group.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Experimental Design
One strength of this experimental design is that it is well-controlled. The independent variable is clearly defined and manipulated, and the dependent variable is measured objectively. Additionally, the participants are randomly assigned to groups, which helps to reduce bias.
One weakness of this experimental design is that it is artificial. The participants are aware that they are participating in an experiment, which may affect their behavior. Additionally, the experiment is conducted in a laboratory setting, which may not be representative of the real world.