BUSINESS RESEARCH

TOPIC- 4

The Experimental Method

Experimental research method is the proof of a hypothesis which seeks to hook up two (2) factors into a
causal relationship through the study of contrasting situations which have been controlled on all factors
except the one of the interest, the latter being either the hypothetical cause or the hypothetical effect.
An experiment is expected to reveal causal relationship.

Characteristics of an experiment
1. Experiment lends itself to easier manipulation because of quantitative entities.
2. Observations are done under controlled conditions.
3. Gathering of valid facts is rigorous
4. Experimentation can be conducted in the laboratory or in the field.
5. Laboratory experiments are intensive and exacting
6. Laboratory experiments are limited to a small number of cases or subjects.
7. There is more a thorough analysis of variable factors
8. Often, equating or pairing or matching is done.

Experimentation is concerned with casual relationship

Concepts of Causation
1. One -to-one relationship- for every particular cause there is a corresponding particular effect.
Example: Weighing Scale. - Weight is the cause, the effect is the raising of the balancing scale
pointer.
2. Two-variable relationship – 2 variables caused the effect.
Example: What made the same amount of water rise higher in a glass container than in a
wooden container?
3. Complex relationship - the effect is caused by so many variables. Example: Man behavior is too
complicated to understand because of the many variables that affects his reaction. T could be
cultural background, socio-economic status, intelligence, ethnic origin, etc.

Abstract of experimental research

1. Variables and actors used in this study
2. Who are the subjects? How are these grouped? Are they paired?
3. How was the experiment done?
4. What are the instruments used?
5. How are data gathered, organized and treated?
6. What are the results?
7. How did the researcher interpret the results?
8. Are the conclusions deduced from the findings?