Instructions: answer all parts of all questions, but do not exceed the recommended answer
lengths. I want you to be parsimonious and precise. Use the link
in the folder for the final exam to turn in the exam.
1. Why, specifically, is random assignment crucial for ensuring the internal validity of experiments? If a
researcher cannot randomly assign, what should he/she do to protect the experiments internal validity?
(No more than one paragraph, 2 points)
2. Describe how maturation can significantly affect the internal validity of a before-and-after quasiexperiment.
Why are these quasi-experiments particularly vulnerable to maturation effects? (2 or 3
sentences, 2 points)
3. Why is the inclusion of mid-points controversial in survey research? What are the pros and cons of
including mid-points? (No more than one paragraph, 2 points)
4. What is a double barreled question, and why are these questions problematic in survey research?
Give an example of a double barreled question. (1 or 2 sentences, 2 points)
5. How do double blind procedures help researchers minimize the ways in which the
expectations of the research staff can threaten an experiments internal validity? (1 or 2
sentences, 2 points)
6. In our department, we are trying to assess the role that online courses should play in our curriculum.