17 Questions
What is the main difference between causal-comparative research and experimental research?
Experimental research involves controlling the independent variable, while causal-comparative research does not.
In experimental research, what aspect provides the greatest degree of control over the research procedures?
Control over the independent variable
What is a key characteristic of experimental research settings?
Control over conditions in the research setting
Which factor distinguishes intervention effects measurement in experimental research?
Applying different programs or treatments to groups
In quantitative research, what type of control does experimental research have over the independent variable?
Complete control
What is the main difference between causal-comparative research and experimental research?
The researcher has control over the independent variable in experimental research, but not in causal-comparative research.
What is one key consideration when choosing a quantitative research approach?
Whether the study is exploratory, descriptive, or hypothesis testing
Which term is used to refer to the characteristic believed to make a difference in causal-comparative research?
Independent variable
In quantitative research, what is the role of standardized methodologies?
To disclose statistical techniques to allow replication of findings
What type of research is also known as ex-post facto research?
Causal-comparative research
Which factor influences the methodological rigor in quantitative research?
Whether the study is exploratory or hypothesis testing
In causal-comparative research, what does the researcher have no control over?
Independent variable
What does research control over dependent variables aim to achieve?
To prevent any influences or effects on dependent variables
What is the dependent variable in a study focusing on the relationship between admission test scores and first semester college grades?
First semester college grades
In quantitative research, what distinguishes causal studies from non-causal studies?
The presence of control over independent variables
Which type of research requires that the alleged cause be under the control of the researcher and be manipulated?
Experimental research
What is a key factor in determining if an intervention effect will be measured in a study?
Whether an intervention will be introduced
Study Notes
Causal-Comparative Research
- Involves comparing at least two different groups on some dependent variable or measurement performance (effect).
- Example: comparing long-time smokers and non-smokers to determine the frequency of lung cancer diagnoses.
Experimental Research
- Distinguishing feature: researcher controls the alleged independent variable.
- Provides the greatest degree of control over research procedures.
- Involves:
- Selecting participants and dividing them into two groups.
- Applying different programs or treatments to the groups.
- Controlling conditions in the research setting.
- Selecting a test or measure to determine the effects of the treatments on the groups.
Quantitative Approach
- Standardized methodologies ensure statistical techniques are public and can be duplicated.
- Forces the investigator to think about the measurement of key factors (i.e., variables) and whether they actually measure intended concepts.
Key Considerations on Choosing Quantitative Approach
- Purpose of the study:
- Decide if the study is exploratory, descriptive, and/or conducted to test hypothesis.
- Methodological rigor and sophistication should increase as the researcher moves from exploratory to hypothesis testing.
- Types of investigation:
- Causal, correlational, or group differences.
- Is the research trying to determine reasons or not?
- Is the study causal or non-causal?
- Is there control over independent variables?
- Will there be an intervention to be introduced whose effects will be measured?
- Research control and concerns:
- Preventing/limiting influences/effects on the dependent variable.
- Extent to which the researcher would interfere with the normal flow of events.
- Presence of mediating variables.
Causal-Comparative Research vs. Experimental Research
- Both aim to make cause-effect statements about two or more phenomena.
- Difference lies in the amount of control the researcher has over the comparisons studied.
- In experimental research, the alleged cause is under the control of the researcher and is manipulated.
- In causal-comparative research, the alleged cause has already occurred and cannot be manipulated (e.g., gender, height, etc.).
Explore the differences between causal-comparative research and experimental research. Learn how these research methodologies compare groups and variables to study effects. Understand the key distinctions between the two approaches.
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