Experimental and nonexperimental research design.

Sample Solution

   

Experimental and Non-Experimental Research Designs

Experimental Research Design

Experimental research design involves manipulating an independent variable to observe its effects on a dependent variable. This type of research allows researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables.

Key Characteristics of Experimental Research Design:

1. Manipulation of Independent Variable: The researcher actively manipulates the independent variable to create different experimental conditions.

Full Answer Section

   

1. Control Group: A control group is used to provide a baseline for comparison. The control group is not exposed to the manipulated independent variable.
2. Random Assignment: Participants are randomly assigned to either the experimental group or the control group to minimize bias and ensure that any observed differences between the groups can be attributed to the independent variable.

Examples of Experimental Research Design:

1. Drug Trial: In a drug trial, researchers randomly assign participants to either receive a new drug or a placebo. They then measure the effects of the drug on the participants' health outcomes.
2. Educational Intervention Study: In an educational intervention study, researchers randomly assign students to either receive a new teaching method or the traditional teaching method. They then compare the students' academic performance to assess the effectiveness of the new method.

Non-Experimental Research Design Non-experimental research design does not involve manipulating an independent variable. Instead, researchers observe and measure variables as they naturally occur. This type of research can provide valuable insights into relationships between variables, but it cannot establish cause-and-effect relationships. Key Characteristics of Non-Experimental Research Design:

1. No Manipulation of Independent Variable: The researcher does not manipulate the independent variable, but rather observes it as it occurs naturally.
2. Lack of Control Group: Non-experimental research often does not use a control group, making it difficult to isolate the effects of the independent variable.
3. Correlational Relationships: Non-experimental research primarily focuses on identifying correlations between variables, indicating whether two or more variables tend to change together.

Examples of Non-Experimental Research Design:

1. Survey Research: In a survey research study, researchers collect data from a sample population through questionnaires or interviews. They then analyze the data to identify patterns and relationships between variables.
2. Observational Study: In an observational study, researchers observe and measure variables in a natural setting without interfering with the subjects' behavior. They then analyze the data to identify patterns and relationships between variables.

Comparison of Levels of Control in Experimental and Non-Experimental Research:

Feature	Experimental Research	Non-Experimental Research
Manipulation of Independent Variable	High level of control	No manipulation
Control Group	Usually used	Usually not used
Ability to Establish Cause-and-Effect Relationships	Strong	Limited

drive_spreadsheetExport to Sheets In summary, experimental research design provides a stronger basis for establishing cause-and-effect relationships between variables due to its use of manipulation and control groups. However, non-experimental research can still provide valuable insights into relationships between variables and can be particularly useful in situations where manipulation of the independent variable is not feasible or ethical.