What type of research involves controlling variables and randomly assigning subjects?

What type of research involves controlling variables and randomly assigning subjects?

• A. Qualitative research
• B. Experimental research
• C. Descriptive research
• D. Correlational research

Answer: (B)

Experimental research is characterized by the manipulation of independent variables to observe the effects on dependent variables, while also employing random assignment of subjects to different groups. This methodology is designed to establish cause-and-effect relationships by controlling various extraneous variables that could influence the outcomes. In experimental research, controlling variables ensures that any observed changes in the dependent variable can be attributed to the manipulation of the independent variable rather than other factors. Random assignment is critical as it helps to distribute any potential confounding variables evenly across the experimental groups, enhancing the internal validity of the study's findings. This rigorous approach allows researchers to make stronger inferences about causation and the impact of specific interventions or treatments. Qualitative research, by contrast, focuses on exploring phenomena in-depth without the aim to manipulate variables or establish cause-and-effect relationships. Descriptive research primarily describes characteristics or functions without establishing relationships or causation among variables. Correlational research examines the relationship between variables but does not involve manipulation or control, nor does it establish causation due to the lack of random assignment and controlled conditions.

Experimental research is characterized by the manipulation of independent variables to observe the effects on dependent variables, while also employing random assignment of subjects to different groups. This methodology is designed to establish cause-and-effect relationships by controlling various extraneous variables that could influence the outcomes.

In experimental research, controlling variables ensures that any observed changes in the dependent variable can be attributed to the manipulation of the independent variable rather than other factors. Random assignment is critical as it helps to distribute any potential confounding variables evenly across the experimental groups, enhancing the internal validity of the study's findings. This rigorous approach allows researchers to make stronger inferences about causation and the impact of specific interventions or treatments.

Qualitative research, by contrast, focuses on exploring phenomena in-depth without the aim to manipulate variables or establish cause-and-effect relationships. Descriptive research primarily describes characteristics or functions without establishing relationships or causation among variables. Correlational research examines the relationship between variables but does not involve manipulation or control, nor does it establish causation due to the lack of random assignment and controlled conditions.