What is the benefit of random assignment in an experiment?
A)It increases the probable effect of the procedure.
B)It minimizes the need for statistical tests after the data have been collected.
C)It reduces the chance that the groups differ greatly at the start of the experiment.
D)It decreases the influence of any independent variables.

Question

What is the benefit of random assignment in an experiment?​
A)It increases the probable effect of the procedure.
B)​It minimizes the need for statistical tests after the data have been collected.
C)​It reduces the chance that the groups differ greatly at the start of the experiment.
D)​It decreases the influence of any independent variables.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Random assignment helps to reduce the chance that the groups differ greatly at the start of the experiment, which is important for controlling for extraneous variables that could affect the results. By randomly assigning participants to different groups, any differences between the groups are more likely due to the manipulation of the independent variable, rather than pre-existing differences between the participants in each group. This ultimately leads to more valid and reliable findings. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because random assignment does not increase the probable effect of the procedure, minimize the need for statistical tests, or decrease the influence of independent variables.

What Is the Benefit of Random Assignment in an Experiment?​

What Is the Benefit of Random Assignment in an Experiment?