Which statement correctly describes a factorial design in experimental research?
2024
Which statement correctly describes a factorial design in experimental research?
Answer: A. A factorial design examines one dependent variable under two or more independent variables (factors). — ConceptA factorial design varies two or more independent variables, called factors, within the same experiment. It allows researchers to study each factor’s…
- A.
A factorial design examines one dependent variable under two or more independent variables (factors).
- B.
A factorial design is used for extraneous variables.
- C.
A factorial design has only one independent variable.
- D.
A factorial design is used for two or more dependent variables.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Concept
A factorial design varies two or more independent variables, called factors, within the same experiment.
It allows researchers to study each factor’s main effect and the interaction between factors on a measured dependent variable.
Application
The statement describing one dependent variable studied under two or more independent variables matches this structure: the independent variables are the factors, and the dependent variable is the measured outcome.
Contrast
Extraneous variables are outside the intended factor set and are controlled or monitored; they do not define a factorial design.
A design with only one independent variable has no interaction between separate factors to estimate.
Having two or more dependent variables concerns multiple outcomes; factorial structure is defined by multiple independent factors.
Cross-check
Count the manipulated factors. When at least two independent factors are examined together, both main effects and their interaction can be compared. Therefore, the statement specifying one dependent variable and two or more independent variables is the best-supported choice.