What is the dependent variable in an experiment?

In an experiment, the dependent variable is the outcome that researchers measure to assess the effects of the independent variable, which is the variable manipulated during the experiment. This means that the dependent variable is influenced by changes in the independent variable. By focusing on the dependent variable, researchers aim to determine how specific manipulations or interventions impact the results of their study.

For instance, if an experiment is designed to evaluate the effect of a new teaching method (the independent variable) on student performance (the dependent variable), student performance is what is measured to see if there is any change as a result of using the new method. This relationship is key in establishing cause-and-effect, as the dependent variable reflects the outcomes that result from changes to the independent variable.