Answer

This study is a quasi-experiment as there are pre-existing groups, type of dog (four breeds of dogs were tested: standard poodles, greyhounds, fox terriers, and shar peis). Instead of an independent variable, this study has a subject variable - breed of dog. The dependent variable is time to learn basic commands . The researchers draw an invalid conclusion. As this study is quasi-experimental, only descriptive results can be reported and not causal results. The researchers should not have stated that fox terriers have an inherently greater capacity to learn quickly as compared to the other three breeds but rather that fox terriers in this study learned faster. It may be that individuals who own fox terriers are better dog trainers.

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