The characteristics of experimental and non-experimental quantitative research.

Full Answer Section

Non-experimental research

• Does not involve the manipulation of an independent variable.
• The researcher does not control the conditions of the study, and extraneous variables may influence the results.
• The researcher does not randomly assign participants to groups.
• The researcher may use statistical tests to analyze the data, but the results may be less reliable than the results of experimental research.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between experimental and non-experimental quantitative research:

Experimental research is considered to be the gold standard of quantitative research because it allows the researcher to make causal inferences. However, experimental research is not always feasible or ethical. In some cases, it may not be possible to manipulate the independent variable or to randomly assign participants to groups. In these cases, non-experimental research may be the only option.

It is important to note that both experimental and non-experimental research can be valuable. The best approach to a research question will depend on the specific circumstances.

Sample Answer

Experimental research

• Involves the manipulation of an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable.
• The researcher controls the conditions of the study to minimize the effects of extraneous variables.
• The researcher randomly assigns participants to groups to ensure that the groups are as similar as possible.
• The researcher uses statistical tests to analyze the data and to determine whether the independent variable had a significant effect on the dependent variable.