In an experimental research question, which aspect is being measured?

In experimental research, the focus is on determining the effect of one variable on another. Within this framework, the dependent variable is the specific aspect being measured to assess the outcome of the experiment. It is the variable that researchers expect to change in response to manipulations of the independent variable.

For instance, if a study investigates the effect of a new drug on blood pressure, the blood pressure readings are the dependent variable, as they are the results being measured to see if they are influenced by administering the drug. This clear distinction is crucial for understanding the relationships between variables in research.

The independent variable, on the other hand, is what the researcher manipulates to observe its effect on the dependent variable. The control group serves as a baseline to compare the results against, ensuring that any changes observed in the dependent variable are due to the manipulation of the independent variable rather than other factors. The sample population refers to the group of subjects involved in the study, but it is not itself the measurement outcome. Thus, among these aspects, the dependent variable is what is measured to evaluate the effects of the independent variable in an experimental setting.