Formal

Axiomatic in nature should be

Theory
Proven at the time of proposal
Generalizability: HIGH

Experiment
Causal variables can be played with

Simulation
Causal Variables can be played with

Judgment
Outcome subjectively measured

Survey / Study
Measures as questions

Precision in Measurement: LOW

Realism in context: LOW
Sample

Represents real world - Small in size

Generalizability: Maximized
Precision in Measurement:
HIGH
Realism in context: LOW
[context in which the response
survey is asked could be
different than actual
questions about how you felt
when you were sleeping]

Laboratory

Environment well controlled

Generalizability: LOW

Doesnt account for the noise in the

real world

Precision in Measurement: HIGH

Realism in context: LOW [depends on
how closely it is mimicked]

Computer

Environment well controlled

Generalizability: MODERATELY HIGH

Doesnt account for the noise in the

real world

Precision in Measurement: HIGH

Realism in context: MODERATELY
HIGH [e.g. Pilot Training very close
to reality]

Multiple combinations of causal

variables possible
Field

Hard to control the causal variables

precisely
Accounts for the noise in the real
world
A field is a context specific entity

Generalizability: LOW [employee

productivity observed in
manufacturing line extended to IT
office]

Generalizability: LOW

Precision in Measurement:
INCREASES

Realism in context: MAXIMISED

Precision in Measurement:
LOW

Realism in context: MODERAELY

HIGH [playing with variables, in
reality may not be possible]
Task

Environment well controlled

Doesnt account for the noise in the
real world

Generalizability: MODERATELY HIGH

[as experts are involved in judging
merger expert assessing staff
insecurity a doctors prescription]
Precision in Measurement:
MODERATELY HIGH
Realism in context: LOW [What am I
making inference about? Will it be
as I predict/explain?]