Every
scientific experiment has a level of
ecological validity (EV). The EV of an experiment is the amount the results can be used to represent
results of
real life situations.
For example, an experiment which measures one's ability to calculate
math equations while being whipped by leather-
clad bondage-monkeys and being force-fed glue-covered
crayons will have low EV, because it is
an experiment involving a
situation which is incredibly unlike any situation that most human beings will ever find themselves in.
However, an experiment which measures one's ability to calculate math equations after having just locked the keys in the car by
mistake, or while driving in heavy
traffic, has high EV, as this involves a situation which is
relatively
common in
normal life.