Factorial Experimental Design Definition. Traditional research methods generally study the effect of one variable at a time because it is statistically easier to manipulate. Definition Factorial design is a type of research methodology that allows for the investigation of the main and interaction effects between two or more independent variables and on one or more outcome variable s.
With a randomized block design the experimenter divides subjects into subgroups called blocks such that the variability within blocks is less than the variability between blocks. But because of the prohibitive size of the experiments such designs are not practical to run. Factorial designs are very useful for screening experiments or when sample sizes are limited.
A factorial design is often used by scientists wishing to understand the effect of two or more independent variables upon a single dependent variable.
For example a complete factorial design of three. When conducting an experiment varying the levels of all factors at the same time instead of one at a time lets you study the interactions between the factors. A factorial design is often used by scientists wishing to understand the effect of two or more independent variables upon a single dependent variable. And -a mix of between-subjects and within-subjects designs within a single research study.
