Understanding  Experimental Design

Experimental design is a crucial aspect of research that involves planned manipulation of one or more variables to determine their effect on a certain outcome. This process involves several principles and techniques that ensure accurate results are obtained. Understanding experimental design requires knowledge of experimental variables, research methods, study design, and hypotheses.

In this post, we will explore the concept of experimental design in depth by answering the most popular questions about it.

What is Experimental Design?

Experimental design is a scientific method used to test a hypothesis by performing experiments with controlled variables. It refers to a set of techniques used to determine the relationships between independent and dependent variables in a given study.

What are Experimental Design Principles?

Experimental design principles refer to the guiding rules that scientists follow when developing experiments. These include randomization, replication, blocking, and factorial designs, which ensure that the results of an experiment are objective and reliable.

What are Experimental Variables?

Experimental variables refer to the factors that are manipulated in an experiment. Independent variables are manipulated by researchers while dependent variables measure the effects of independent variables on outcomes.

What is Experimental Research Method?

Experimental research method refers to the systematic approach used by researchers to test theories using experiments. This method aims at identifying cause-and-effect relationships between factors being studied.

What is Experimental Study Design?

Experimental study design refers to the specific approach that researchers use when working with experimental data. The study can be designed in different ways such as randomized control trials, quasi-experimental studies, or longitudinal studies.

What is an Experimental Hypothesis?

An experimental hypothesis is an expected outcome of an experiment based on a scientific theory or observation. It guides researchers when designing experiments and helps determine whether the results align with their expectations.

How Important is Experimental Design in Research?

Experimental design plays a crucial role in research as it ensures accurate and reliable results are obtained. Poorly designed experiments can lead to incorrect conclusions or biased results, which can have serious implications in scientific research.

References

  1. Campbell, D.T. & Stanley, J.C. (1963). Experimental and Quasi-Experimental Designs for Research.
  2. Shadish, W.R., Cook, T.D., & Campbell, D.T. (2002). Experimental and Quasi-Experimental Designs for Generalized Causal Inference.
  3. Rosenthal, R., & Rosnow, R.L. (1975). The Volunteer Subject.
  4. Bashook, P.G., & Glaser, R. (1985). Some Issues in the Design and Interpretation of Research Studies of Expertise.
  5. Krosnick, J.S., & Presser, S. (2010). Question and Questionnaire Design Handbook of Survey Research.
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