Experiments

✓

Check off	each of the following once you have addressed it in full. Cross out or delete any that do
not apply. Address any aspects that require more work.

Before you start
■	Formulate the hypothesis (page 140).
■	Clarify how you will gather data to test your
hypothesis.
■	Consider what ‘controlled conditions’ means
in the context of your experiments.
■	Clarify the independent variable(s).
■	Clarify the dependent variable(s).
■	How, and to what extent, will you vary these?
■	Decide the number and type of
experimental conditions.
■	Decide on the controls/control group(s).
■	Decide how to ensure participants will not
know which group they are in.
■	Set up double-blind conditions, if needed.
■	Decide how to measure any changes that
occur when you manipulate the variables.
■	Decide time intervals for recording measurements and observations.
■	Decide how to note or record findings.
■	Design, purchase or adapt material or tools
for recording findings.
■	Check that resources are definitely available.
■	Weigh up the ethical considerations.
■	Address health, safety and security.
■	Plan out your methods in fine detail.
■	Write up your planned methods.
■	Create (or purchase) any materials needed
for the experiment.
■	Create any materials needed for informing participants (page 158).
■	Select your sample (page 151).
■	Ensure that you have all consents and
permissions before starting.

Pilot
■	Set up the controlled conditions as planned.
■	If you change anything in the course of
setting up the experiment, rewrite your
methods. Check this with your supervisor.
■	Pilot the methods, noting areas for improvement.
■	Fine-tune the methods, and then rewrite
the methods section of your report.
■	Pilot and fine-tune again if necessary.
■	Write up the pilot in the methods section
of your dissertation or report.
■	Include copies of the materials you used
for the pilot in your appendices.
During
■	Once you start the experiment, follow your
method exactly as planned – as a ‘recipe’.
■	If later stages must be redesigned in
the light of what actually occurs, discuss first with your supervisor. Rewrite your Methods section. Address this in the Discussion section of your report.
■	Make accurate records, using the tools you
devised.
■	Store records carefully during the
experiment.
After
■	Collate your results.
■	Select a format for presenting them
clearly, such as graphs, charts, etc.
■	Clarify whether the research hypothesis
was supported or not.
■	Clarify the level of significance.
■