What independent variables can you identify? Were the variables effectively manipulated? Why or why not? How could you improve the experiment?

Ronald and his classroom research group were conducting an experiment to test people’s ability to touch their noses when their eyes were shut. They were testing their hypothesis that males were more skilled at this task than females. The group also had a theory that noise could alter a person’s ability to carry out the task. They asked several classmates and teachers to perform the task. Sometimes, Ronald or someone else in the research group would whistle or shout while a person tried to do the task.
What dependent variable did Ronald’s group identify?
What independent variables can you identify?
Were the variables effectively manipulated? Why or why not?
How could you improve the experiment?
Now construct your own experiment; measuring both dependent and independent variables to determine how a lack of sleep influences performance on a math quiz which emphasizes solutions to word problems. Be sure to address the following elements.

(a) What is your hypothesis?

(b) Operationally define your variables. (b) What are your independent and dependent variables?

(c) How will you conduct your research?

(d) What procedures will you use to analyze your results?