Experimental research: what it is, what types there are and how to carry it out

Experimental research is any research conducted using a scientific approach in which one set of variables is held constant while the other set of variables is measured as the subject of the experiment.

An experiment usually confirms that the observed change in the variable under study is due solely to the manipulation of the independent variable.

What is experimental research?

Experimental research is one of the most important quantitative research methods.

A true experimental study is considered successful only when the researcher confirms that a change in the dependent variable is due to the manipulation of the independent variable.

It is important for experimental research to establish cause and effect of a phenomenon, that is, it must be clear that the effects observed in an experiment are due to the cause.

Examples of types of experimental research

The simplest example of types of research is a laboratory experiment. As long as the research is conducted under scientifically acceptable conditions, it can be described as experimental research.

Of course, the events that occur may be confusing and do not allow researchers to easily draw a conclusion.

An example: A cardiology student studies the effects of food on cholesterol levels, and it turns out that most patients with heart problems are not vegetarians and do not have diabetes because they eat meat (we assume). The latter can be an aspect (cause) that can lead to a heart attack (effect).

When should you conduct experimental research?

Any research conducted under scientifically acceptable conditions uses experimental methods. The success of experimental studies depends on researchers being able to confirm that the change in one variable is due solely to the manipulation of the constant variable. The research must demonstrate a recognizable cause and effect.

You can do this kind of research…

• When time is a crucial factor in establishing a cause and effect relationship.
• When there is an unchanging behavior between cause and effect.
• When the cause and effect relationship is primarily a product of chance.

Types of experimental research

There are three types of research that are conducted experimentally:

• Preexperimental design
• Real experimental setup
• Quasi-experimental test plan

The different types of experimental designs are based on how the researcher classifies the subjects.

1. Pre-experimental design

This is the simplest form of experimental research design. A group or groups of people are kept under observation after considering cause and effect. It is usually carried out to find out whether further research on the target groups is necessary.

Pre-experimental research is divided into three types:

• Single instance research design.
• Single-group research design.
• Comparison of two static groups.

2. Real experimental design

This experimental design is the most precise form of experimental research because it relies on statistical analysis to prove or disprove a hypothesis. It is the only type of experimental design that can establish a cause-and-effect relationship within one or more groups. Three factors must be taken into account in such an experimental plan:

• Groups: control group and experimental group
• Variable: which can be manipulated by the researcher.
• Distribution: randomized

This experimental research method is often used in the natural sciences.

3. Quasi-experimental design

The word “quasi” indicates a similarity. A quasi-experimental research design is similar to the experimental one, they are almost identical. The difference between the two is the assignment of a control group.

In this research design, an independent variable is manipulated, but participants are not randomly assigned to a group. The independent variable is manipulated before the dependent variable is calculated, eliminating the problem of directionality. Quasi-research is used in areas where random assignment is irrelevant or unnecessary.

Advantages of experimental research

It is important to test new ideas or theories. Therefore, you can use these types of research before making a decision. Here are some of the benefits of experimental research:

• Researchers have greater control over the variables to achieve desired results.
• The subject matter or industry has no influence on the effectiveness of the experimental research. Any industry can use them for research purposes.
• The results are specific.
• After analyzing the results, you can apply your conclusion to similar ideas or situations.
• You can determine the cause and effect of a hypothesis. Researchers can further analyse this relationship to gain deeper insights.
• Experimental research is an ideal starting point. The data you collect provides a basis for further ideas and research.
• This type of research can be done in conjunction with others Research methods .

Conclusion

Experimental research is the best way to find out how the public reacts to a new product or whether a particular food increases the likelihood of disease.

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experimental research | Research | Experimental