Light

Control

Definition

Control refers to the ability of researchers to manage and minimize potential influences or confounding factors during a study to ensure accurate results.

Analogy

Imagine control as being similar to driving a car. Just like you have control over the steering wheel, brakes, and accelerator pedal, researchers establish control measures to navigate their study and reduce unwanted variables' impact.

Related terms

Random Assignment: A technique used in experiments where participants are randomly assigned to different groups to balance out potential individual differences.

Extraneous Variables: Factors other than the independent variable that may influence the outcome of a study if not controlled.

Standardization: Procedures used by researchers to ensure consistency in data collection methods, instructions, and conditions across participants or studies.