Discussion Questions
- 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?
- 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?
- 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?
- What type of validity should be considered when utilizing the observational approach?
- What type of validity should be considered when utilizing the survey approach?
- 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?