Provide an example of experimental, quasi-experimental, and nonexperimental research from the GCU Library and explain how each research type differs from the others. When replying to peers, evaluate the effectiveness of the research design of the study for two of the examples provided.
Experimental, quasi-experimental, and nonexperimental research
Full Answer Section
Quasi-Experimental Research
Example: A study comparing the academic performance of students in a new online learning program to those in a traditional classroom setting.
- Key Characteristics:
- Lack of random assignment to groups.
- Manipulation of the independent variable.
- Less control over extraneous variables compared to true experiments.
- Weaker causal inference than true experiments.
Non-Experimental Research
Example: A correlational study examining the relationship between hours of study and exam performance.
- Key Characteristics:
- No manipulation of variables.
- Observation of naturally occurring relationships between variables.
- Cannot establish causation, only correlation.
- Useful for exploring complex phenomena and generating hypotheses.
How the Research Types Differ
Research Type | Key Difference |
---|---|
Experimental | Random assignment, manipulation of IV, control of extraneous variables |
Quasi-Experimental | Lack of random assignment, manipulation of IV, limited control over extraneous variables |
Non-Experimental | No manipulation of variables, observation of relationships |
Evaluating Research Design Effectiveness
Example 1: Experimental Research
- Strength: The random assignment of participants to groups helps to control for extraneous variables, increasing the internal validity of the study.
- Weakness: The artificial nature of the experimental setting may limit the generalizability of the findings to real-world situations.
Example 2: Quasi-Experimental Research
- Strength: This design allows researchers to study real-world interventions and programs that cannot be easily manipulated.
- Weakness: The lack of random assignment can weaken the causal inference, as other factors may influence the outcome.
Sample Answer
Three Research Designs: Experimental, Quasi-Experimental, and Non-Experimental
Experimental Research
Example: A study testing the effectiveness of a new medication on reducing symptoms of depression.
- Key Characteristics:
- Random assignment of participants to experimental and control groups.
- Manipulation of the independent variable (medication).
- Control over extraneous variables.
- Strongest design for establishing causal relationships.