Examples of research designs that are experimental as well as non-experimental

In experimental design, the use of random allocation, manipulation of independent variables, and
stringent control are common practices. These characteristics lend greater assurance to the concept of
causality. Research that is genuinely experimental, quasi-experimental, and even pre-experimental falls
under this category. In the design that does not involve experiments, there is no random distribution, no
modification of the variables, and no comparison group (Reio, 2016). Researchers watch what occurs in
the wild without making any attempts to influence it. Observational research, correlational research,
and cross-sectional research are some examples of the types of studies that can be conducted (Curtis,
Comiskey, & Dempsey, 2016).

The difference in the levels of control used in experimental and non-experimental research designs and
how they are put into practice.

Setting: Experimental research is carried out in an environment that is not natural because the majority
of the factors that affect the environment are under control in the experimental research environment,
whereas the environment in which non-experimental research is carried out is still natural and
uncontrolled. During exploration, one of the things that is typically dealt with is dealing with external
circumstances (Noh & Kim, 2019).

Tool for collecting data The data that is used in the experimental research is acquired by observational
research, simulation, and inquiry. On the other hand, the data that is not collected through experiments
is collected through observation, investigation, and case studies. Case studies and modeling represent
the primary distinction between these two different types of data collection strategies. There are a
variety of applications for these tools. For instance, during laboratory experiments, observational
research can be used to assess how the impacts of control variables are exhibited in experimental
investigations over the course of a certain amount of time (Noh & Kim, 2019).

The purpose of experimental research is to determine the factors that cause and contribute to the
observed effects, whereas the findings of non-experimental research offer little to no information about
the pathogens being studied. The results of experimental study explain the reasons behind specific
questions. Experiential research, due to the fact that the researchers have access to more data, and
because their ultimate objective is to convey what (Curtis et al., 2016).

The relationship between causes and effects can be demonstrated by experimental study, but it cannot
be demonstrated through research that does not involve experiments. In spite of the fact that non-
experimental research acknowledges the existence of variable causation and the impacts it has, its
primary goal is not to establish causality but rather to provide descriptive data. There is no way to
measure the degree to which these dependent variables shift using the independent variables (Noh &
Kim, 2019).

References

The authors of the study were Curtis, E. A. Comiskey, and O. Dempsey (2016). The significance of
correlational research, as well as its applications. Nurse Researcher, volume 23, number 6, pages 20–25.

Noh, G. O., & Kim, D. H. (2019). A quasi-experimental research design was used to investigate the
effectiveness of a self-directed learning program that included blended coaching for nursing students
participating in clinical rotations. BMC Medical Education, Volume 19, Page 19 (1).

Reio, T. G. (2016). The advantages, disadvantages, and difficulties associated with non-experimental
research are discussed. 40(8/9), pages 676–690 in the European Journal of Training and Development.