Variables
Variables
DEPENDENT VARIABLES
INDEPENDENT VARIABLES
. . . are those that the researcher has control over. This "control" may involve
manipulating existing variables (e.g., modifying existing methods of
instruction) or introducing new variables (e.g., adopting a totally new method
for some sections of a class) in the research setting. Whatever the case may
be, the researcher expects that the independent variable(s) will have some
effect on (or relationship with) the dependent variables.
INTERVENING VARIABLES
. . . refer to abstract processes that are not directly observable but that link the
independent and dependent variables. In language learning and teaching, they
are usually inside the subjects' heads, including various language learning
processes which the researcher cannot observe. For example, if the use of a
particular teaching technique is the independent variable and mastery of the
objectives is the dependent variable, then the language learning processes
used by the subjects are the intervening variables.
MODERATOR VARIABLES
CONTROL VARIABLES
EXTRANEOUS VARIABLES
. . . are those factors in the research environment which may have an effect
on the dependent variable(s) but which are not controlled. Extraneous
variables are dangerous. They may damage a study's validity, making it
impossible to know whether the effects were caused by the independent and
moderator variables or some extraneous factor. If they cannot be controlled,
extraneous variables must at least be taken into consideration when
interpreting results.