Which is an aspect of an experimental study?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks: 'Which is an aspect of an experimental study?' and the provided correct option is 'Manipulation of a variable by the researcher'.

First, consider what characterizes experimental studies in research design. Experimental designs are defined by the deliberate manipulation of an independent variable by the researcher in order to observe its effect on a dependent variable. This manipulation is central because it allows for stronger causal inferences by controlling conditions and establishing temporal precedence.

Second, without listed alternatives, we cannot critique specific incorrect options. In general, common aspects of experiments also include random assignment of participants to groups, use of control groups, and careful measurement of outcomes. However, those elements are not presented here as competing choices, so we focus on analyzing the given correct statement.

Third, why this aspect stands out: manipulation distinguishes experiments from observational or correlational studies, where researchers simply observe existing conditions without changing them. The act of changing a variable is what enables the isolation of cause-and-effect relationships rather than merely describing associations.

Fourth, it is helpful to contrast this with potential misconceptions. A common error is assuming that any study involving variables is experimental; however, in non-experimental designs (like surveys or naturalistic observations), researchers do not manipulate the key variables. Emphasizing manipulation clarifies the experimental method and its goal of causal inference.

Finally, given that there are no other options provided to evaluate, the emphasis remains on manipulation as a defining experimental feature: it reflects the researcher’s active role in shaping the conditions of the study to test hypothesized effects, rather than passively observing naturally occurring variation.

hk_200_120251_244468 1.8 | Quiz

Which is an aspect of an experimental study?

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Which of the following is a synonym for a between-subjects design?

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A research involved sending out obtaining information from students using a survey If a representative sample has been established, randomly assigning participants to groups rather than using pre-determined selection factors (such as degree type, gender, or age) will increase the internal validity.

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