EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH

EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH

Definition of the method/technique 

Research that uses two sets of variables and a scientific methodology is called experimental research. You use the first set as a reference point to calculate the differences between the second set. For instance, quantitative research techniques involve experimentation. The facts must be established before you can make conclusions if there is insufficient data to support them. Experimental research collects the information required to aid in better decision-making.In accordance with accepted scientific standards, experimental procedures are used in all studies. The conclusion that a variable's change is purely due to the modification of the constant variable is crucial to the success of experimental studies. A noteworthy cause and effect should be revealed by the research.

Characteristics of the method/technique

➢ Variables. Experimental research contains dependent, independent and extraneous variables. The dependent variables are the variables being treated or manipulated and are sometimes called the subject of the research. The independent variables are the experimental treatment being exerted on the dependent variables. Extraneous variables, on the other hand, are other factors affecting the experiment that may also contribute to the change

➢ Setting. The setting is where the experiment is carried out. Many experiments are carried out in the laboratory, where control can be exerted on the extraneous variables, thereby eliminating them. Other experiments are carried out in a less controllable setting. The choice of setting used in research depends on the nature of the experiment being carried out. 

➢ Multivariable. Experimental research may include multiple independent variables, e.g. time, skills, test scores, etc.

Main uses of the method/technique 

● Establishing Causality: Experimental research is particularly effective in establishing cause-and-effect relationships between variables. 

● Testing Hypotheses: Experimental research allows researchers to test specific hypotheses or research questions. 

● Controlling Extraneous Variables: One of the key strengths of experimental research is the ability to control extraneous variables. 

● Replicability and Generalizability: Experimental research often allows for replication, which enhances the reliability and validity of the findings. 

● Designing and Evaluating Interventions: Experimental research is widely used in fields such as psychology, medicine, education, and social sciences to design and evaluate interventions or treatments. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of using the method/technique Advantages:

Advantages: 

★ Researchers have a stronger hold over variables to obtain desired results. 

★ The subject or industry does not impact the effectiveness of experimental research. Any industry can      implement it for research purposes. 

★ The results are specific. 

★ After analyzing the results, you can apply your findings to similar ideas or situations. 

★ You can identify the cause and effect of a hypothesis. Researchers can further analyze this relationship to determine more in-depth ideas.

Disadvantages:

❖ It is highly prone to human error due to its dependency on variable control which may not be properly implemented. These errors could eliminate the validity of the experiment and the research being conducted. 

❖ Exerting control of extraneous variables may create unrealistic situations. Eliminating real-life variables will result in inaccurate conclusions. This may also result in researchers controlling the variables to suit his or her personal preferences. 

❖ It is a time-consuming process. So much time is spent on testing dependent variables and waiting for the effect of the manipulation of dependent variables to manifest