Discussion Questions

  1. Why would a researcher choose to conduct non-experimental research? What are the strengths and weaknesses associated with this type of research? Can cause and effect be established via this type of research? Why or why not?
  2. Although the ex post facto design and one group posttest-only design are non-experimental research, how are these designs unique compared to the other designs designated as non-experimental?
  3. Develop a hypothetical research scenario that would warrant the application of the observational approach. Would this application utilize a predictive or explanatory design? Why or why not?
  4. What type of validity should be considered when utilizing the observational approach?
  5. What type of validity should be considered when utilizing the survey approach?
  6. Develop a hypothetical research scenario that would warrant the application of the survey approach. Would this application utilize a cross-sectional or longitudinal design? Why or why not?