A researcher is planning a study looking at first-year college students and their experiences at a four-year university. A sample of individuals from the first-year class is taken at Time 1 and data are gathered. A year passes and some participants leave the study. However, the researcher gathers data from the same people from the first time, minus those who left. This is an example of what kind of study?
A) Longitudinal study
B) Panel design
C) Cohort study
D) Repeated cross-sectional design
E) Group study

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is an example of a panel design study, where the same group of participants is followed over time, with the only difference being those who drop out of the study. A longitudinal study involves following the same group of individuals over time, regardless of whether they drop out of the study or not. A cohort study involves following a specific group of people who share a common characteristic. A repeated cross-sectional design involves taking samples from different groups at different points in time. A group study is a vague term that doesn't provide enough information to determine the type of study being conducted.

A Researcher Is Planning a Study Looking at First-Year College