Light

Experimental Study Design

Definition

Experimental study design refers to a research method where the researcher manipulates an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable, while controlling other variables. It allows for causal inferences to be made.

Analogy

Think of experimental study design as conducting a science experiment in a lab. The researcher is like the scientist who carefully controls and changes one variable at a time to see how it affects the outcome.

Related terms

Random Assignment: Random assignment is the process of assigning participants to different groups or conditions in an experiment randomly. It helps ensure that each participant has an equal chance of being assigned to any group, reducing bias.

Bias: Bias refers to systematic errors or distortions that can occur during data collection or analysis, leading to inaccurate results. It can arise from various sources such as sampling methods, measurement tools, or personal opinions of researchers.

Control Group: A control group is a group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment or intervention being studied. It serves as a baseline for comparison with the experimental group(s) and helps determine if any observed effects are due to the treatment itself.