How does an experimental research design differ from a nonexperimental research design?
A) Experimental designs allow observation of a phenomenon as it naturally occurs, and nonexperimental designs permit environmental manipulation.
B) Nonexperimental designs manipulate the dependent variable, and experimental designs manipulate the independent variable.
C) Nonexperimental designs attempt to test differences among variables, and experimental designs attempt to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
D) Experimental designs are scientific, and nonexperimental designs have no scientific base.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Correct C: Experimental designs seek to establish cause-and-effect relationships by active manipulation of variables (e.g.,treatments).
Incorrect A: Nonexperimental designs allow observation of phenomena; experimental designs permit environmental (variable)manipulation.
Incorrect B: Nonexperimental designs involve no manipulation of variables.
Incorrect D: Nonexperimental designs should have a scientific basis or rationale.

How Does an Experimental Research Design Differ from a Nonexperimental