Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I am in the middle of the experiment titled "The Eyes Have It" (an experiment listed on the Science Buddies website). I am trying to list my constant, dependent and independent variables and want to makes sure I am doing it correctly. I have the following:

Dependent variable - visual vs auditory memory (what I am testing/measuring).
Independent variables - the way the numbers are presented (consistent, same speed, always having study participant say the alphabet in between hearing/seeing and reciting the number, etc).
Constant Variables -the quantity of digits in the numbers I am using (7).

Anything else? Is there a control in this experiment?

Thanks,

Maddie

Welcome to Science Buddis!

I think you are doing this excellent project:

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... #procedure

In this project, you are comparing your test subjects’ ability to remember numbers presented either visually or by sound. So your independent variable is either information presented sight or sound. Your dependent variable is the ability to remember the information, and since this is a science project, you will be measuring the results.

In a project like this, the quality of the experiment depends on controlling all other parameters. . Since you are working with humans, this is impossible to do perfectly, but you can try to the control the following:

1. Location and environment of the testing location.
2. Time of day you are testing.
3. Temperature of the testing location.
4. Age and gender of your participants.
5. Eyesight and hearing ability of test subjects should be verified.
6. Duration of testing.
7. Presentation of written numbers and the sound volume should be identical for all tests.
8. Your test subjects should not be hungry, tired, or preoccupied with something else (do a quick questionnaire).

I hope this helps. Please do let me know if you have any questions.

Donna