Researchers at State University wanted to test the hypothesis that distributed, or spaced, practice results in better retention of material than massed practice or cramming. To find out if there is a cause-and-effect relationship, the researcher should use:
A) correlational research methods.
B) the experimental method.
C) naturalistic observation.
D) survey or questionnaire research.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best method to test a cause-and-effect relationship is through an experimental method in which participants are randomly assigned to either distributed practice or massed practice conditions, and then their retention of material is measured and compared. Correlational methods cannot establish causality, naturalistic observation cannot manipulate variables or control for extraneous variables, and survey/questionnaire research may not provide direct manipulation of variables or objective measures of retention.

Researchers at State University Wanted to Test the Hypothesis That