Another term for the outcome measure is the __________ variable.

The term "dependent variable" refers to the outcome measure in an experiment because it represents the variable that researchers are interested in measuring. The dependent variable is affected by changes made to other variables in the study, specifically the independent variable. In experimental research, the independent variable is manipulated to observe how it influences the dependent variable, allowing researchers to assess the relationship between the two.

This distinction is crucial for understanding how experiments are designed and analyzed. By measuring the dependent variable, researchers can draw conclusions about the effects of the independent variable, thereby determining the validity of their hypotheses. Recognizing the role of the dependent variable supports the foundational principles of the scientific method, as well as the importance of accurately isolating and measuring outcomes to make informed inferences based on experimental data.