Assignment 1A: Research distinctions

1. Was the study more quantitative or qualitative? (How did you reach this conclusion?) [2
points]
This study was more quantitative due to the following reasons:
- This study aimed to test that the mode of administration has an effect on middle school
students’ performance on multiple-choice and written test questions.
- It used primarily numerical values and statistics rather than text data (interviews,
observations, narratives, etc.)
- Researchers were objective during the study and did not involve themselves in the
process
- It was trying to infer a causal relationship between mode of administration and test
scores.
- Data (numbers) were analyzed for statistical significance to infer causal relationship
between variables
- Trying to generalize results to a bigger population

The research also has some characteristics of a qualitative:

- The research also tried to understand and explain why the mode of administration
effect occurred
- it also considered comments from interviews with the participants

2. Was the study experimental or non-intervention? (How did you reach this conclusion?)
[2 points]

This study was an experimental study.

- And it should be considered as a true-experimental research.
- It involved manipulated independent variable as its intervention group
o Experimental group: performed 2 of 3 kinds of tests on computer
o Control group: perform all tests using pencil/paper
- Participants are randomly selected
o To participate in experimental or control group
o Try to rule out other extraneous variables
o Infer cause and effect relationship

3. Was the study more problem-based opposed to theory-based? (How did you reach this
conclusion?) [2 points]

This study was more problem-based.

- It was not trying to build a new theory
- It was trying to use findings to solve practical problem that student authenticity of test
scores is affected by mode of administration
- Large scale policy research to considerate underestimation of student ability based on
paper-and-pencil tests. Schools/districts/states should be cautious about test validity.