Explain what is meant by 'operationalisation' in relation to the dependent variable and independent variable, using the study by Piliavin et al. (subway Samaritans).

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2021). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [3] 1 mark for definition 2 marks for links Operationalisation means clearly defining a variable; (definition) Operationalisation when variables are defined so that they can be accurately manipulated/measured/replicated; (definition) Piliavin et al. defined the IV e.g. the 'type' of victim by what they carried, a bottle in a bag or a cane; (link) e.g. the model present or absent; (link) And spontaneous helping / the DV as intervening to help before the model did; (link)