Spurling et al, investigated the effects of two vocabulary learning strategies on word retention two weeks later. In this example, learning strategy is the and word retention is the variable.
control; experimental
dependent; independent
experimental; control
independent; dependent
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: D. independent; dependent
Explanation:
In the study by Spurling et al., two vocabulary learning strategies were examined to see how they affect word retention two weeks later. To understand the correct answer, we must clarify the roles of independent and dependent variables in an experiment.
1. Independent Variable:
The independent variable is what the researcher manipulates or changes to observe its effect. In this case, the researchers are changing the vocabulary learning strategy. There are two different learning strategies being compared. These strategies are applied to different groups of participants to examine how each one influences learning outcomes.
Therefore, the learning strategy is the independent variable, because it is what is being intentionally altered by the experimenters.
2. Dependent Variable:
The dependent variable is what the researcher measures to determine the effect of the independent variable. It depends on what was changed or introduced. In this scenario, the researchers are measuring word retention — specifically, how well participants remember the vocabulary two weeks after using the strategy.
Thus, word retention is the dependent variable, as it is the outcome that is influenced by the learning strategy used.
3. Applying the Definitions:
To break it down:
- The researchers manipulated learning strategy (independent variable).
- They measured word retention after two weeks (dependent variable).
- The goal was to see if different strategies would lead to different retention outcomes.
Summary:
- Learning strategy = Independent variable (manipulated by the researcher)
- Word retention = Dependent variable (measured outcome