The independent group design will be used for this experiment as two groups will be used where the participants have been selected specifically based on their age using a systematic sampling method. All members of the association will be listed alphabetically into the two age groups required, and then every alternate member will be selected until there is a list of ten participants in each age group.
This method of sampling is justified, as it is the easiest option; it does not take into account the gender, occupation or religious background of the participants, it merely selects them based on their ages and their position alphabetically on a ‘register’.
The independent variable of the experiment is the moral reasoning used to answer the questions.
The dependent variable of the experiment is the ages of the participants showing the most moral reasoning.
Each participant will be given a list of standardised instructions detailing what they are expected to do, both verbally and written. They are as follows:
Instructions
You have been systematically selected because of your age and position alphabetically on the ‘Society’ register to take part in a psychological experiment to measure moral reasoning. Your anonymity will be kept at all times as you are not required to record your name, your exact age, however, is required and should be recorded clearly on the sheet. You have the right to withdraw from the experiment at any time without the fear of repercussions.
You will be given a written dilemma which will be read aloud to you and then you will need to consider three questions and answer them as honestly as possible. You are not allowed to discuss the dilemma or the questions with any of the other participants. N.B There are no right or wrong answers it is merely your opinion that is required. Your answers will then be recorded and analysed.
Each participant will also be given a sheet detailing the moral dilemma and the three questions they must answer. They will also be provided with a pen. The dilemma and questions will also be given verbally. The participant will also indicate on the sheet, which age range they fall into.
The answer sheets will then be collected and the data entered into a table to indicate how each participant answered the questions, along with their age.
The results will be presented as a scattergram to indicate whether there is a negative, positive or no correlation between the variables.
The results will also be analysed by calculating the mean, median, mode and range, to identify what they highlight in relation to the aim of the experiment.
The research will be evaluated and conclusions will be drawn from the study.
Extraneous variables: People being unable to read well, not enough time to complete, may be tired, unwell,
Independent Measures: Ensure everyone has same amount of time, the temperature, noise level and lighting in the room are the same. All participants need to feel safe secure and comfortable during the experiment. Ensure no one attempts to cheat by talking or reading another participant’s paper.
Heinz’s Dilemma
Heinz’s wife was dying of cancer. Doctors said a new drug might save her. The drug had been discovered by a pharmacist in Heinz’s town but he was charging a lot of money for it – ten times what it cost him to make it. Heinz couldn’t afford to buy the drug, so he asked friends and relatives to lend him money. But still he only had half the money he needed. He told the pharmacist his wife was dying and asked him to sell the drug cheaper, or asked if he could pay the rest of the money later. The pharmacist said no, he had discovered the drug and was going to make money on it. Heinz got desperate so he broke into the pharmacy and stole some of the drug.
Questions _ Age in years
- Should Heinz have stolen the drug?
- Yes, because he wanted to save his wife’s life
- No, because it was wrong to break in and steal something.
- Would it change anything if Heinz did not love his wife?
- Yes, because he wouldn’t care whether she lived or died.
- No, because he still wouldn’t want to see her die.
- What if the person dying was a stranger, would it make any difference?
- Yes, because you wouldn’t break in and steal the drug for someone you didn’t know.
- No, because you would be trying to save someone’s life.