Experimental studies are research designs in which the researcher manipulates an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable, while controlling for other variables. They allow researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables.
Imagine you are conducting an experiment to test whether drinking coffee improves focus. You randomly assign participants into two groups - one group drinks coffee and the other group drinks water. After a set period of time, you measure their focus levels. By manipulating the independent variable (coffee consumption) and controlling for other factors, you can determine if there is a causal relationship between drinking coffee and improved focus.
Independent Variable: The variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher in an experiment.
Dependent Variable: The variable that is measured or observed to see if it changes as a result of manipulating the independent variable.
Control Group: A group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment or manipulation being tested, used as a baseline for comparison with the experimental group.
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