When a researcher cannot manipulate variables in a project on the relationship between level of education and income,she will be forced to collect naturally occurring data.The data analysis would probably involve:
A) a correlational analysis
B) descriptive, but not inferential, statistics
C) naturalistic observation
D) selection bias

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the researcher cannot manipulate the variables, she can only observe and collect data. A correlational analysis would allow her to determine if there is a relationship between level of education and income based on the naturally occurring data she collects. Descriptive statistics would describe the data collected but not provide inferential conclusions about a relationship. Naturalistic observation is a method of observing behavior in its natural context and would not be applicable for this research question. Selection bias refers to a bias in selecting participants for a study, which is not relevant in this case as the researcher is collecting naturally occurring data.

When a Researcher Cannot Manipulate Variables in a Project on the Relationship