A New York Times Article Published on April 24, 2007

question 144

Multiple Choice

A New York Times article published on April 24, 2007, reported the research of Dr.Vallortigara, a neuroscientist at the University of Trieste, Italy.In this study, Dr.Vallortigara assessed whether a dog's tail wags in a preferred direction in response to positive as opposed to negative stimuli.First Dr.Vallortigara recruited 30 dogs that were family pets.While filming a dog's tail from above, he allowed the dog to view (through a slot in its cage) its owner, an unfamiliar human, a cat, and an unfamiliar dominant dog.The study found that dogs' tails wagged to the right for the owner and to the left for the unfamiliar dominant dog.What type of research design did Dr.Vallortigara employ?

• A) between-groups
• B) within-groups
• C) non-experimental
• D) quasi-experimental

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Definitions:

Astrological Signs

Astrological signs are symbols used in astrology that represent the twelve sectors of the ecliptic, each named after the constellations they were associated with in ancient times.

Knowledge of Astrology

An understanding or expertise in the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies interpreted as having an influence on human affairs and the natural world.

Fire Signs

In astrology, the three fire signs are Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, which are said to represent enthusiasm, courage, and passion.

Representative Sample

A sample taken so that findings from members of the sample group can be generalized to the larger population; also referred to as a stratified sample.