Matched Pairs Design
Definition
Matched pairs design is a research method where each participant is paired with another participant who has similar characteristics, and then one member of the pair receives the treatment while the other serves as a control. This helps to eliminate confounding variables and increase the validity of the study.
Analogy
Think of matched pairs design like a before-and-after makeover show. Each participant is paired with someone who has similar physical features, and then one person gets a makeover while the other remains unchanged. By comparing their outcomes, we can see if the makeover had any effect.
Related terms
Control Group: In an experiment, the control group refers to the group that does not receive any treatment or intervention. It serves as a baseline for comparison to determine if there are any effects caused by the treatment.
Experimental Group: The experimental group in an experiment refers to the group that receives a specific treatment or intervention being studied. It is compared to the control group to evaluate whether or not there are significant differences between them.
Confounding Variables: Confounding variables are factors other than the independent variable that may influence or affect the dependent variable in an experiment. They can lead to inaccurate conclusions if not properly controlled for during data analysis.
"Matched Pairs Design" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (5)
In a matched pairs design, each pair receives:
What is a matched pairs design?
What is the advantage of using a matched pairs design in an experiment?
What is the key difference between a blocking design and a matched pairs design?
In a matched pairs design, how are the two treatments assigned to the paired individuals?
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