Identify the independent variable in the research scenario described below. 

Researchers wonder if taking notes by hand is better than taking notes on a computer for mental recall. A group of 100 participants is divided in half and 50 people hear a short lecture while taking notes by hand and 50 people watch the same lecture while taking notes on a laptop. Thirty minutes later, each person takes a short quiz that assesses mental recall of the lecture. 

The quiz results are compared to see if there were any differences. 

What is the independent variable?

Select one:

a. Mental recall

b. Notetaking method 

c. The lecture

d. The quiz