What is Experimental Research This is a systematic method of evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of educational interventions, curriculum designs or educational policies. common example of experimental research is laboratory blood tests to determine the causes of a patient's health condition. In these tests, the results obtained from the patient's samples are compared with constant variables, which indicate the range of normal values. The purpose is to investigate causes and effect relationships among variables and observing their effects on educational outcomes.
Characteristics of Experimental Research
Experimental research has specific characteristics derived from its methods of analysis. Dependent variables and independent variables. All experimental research starts from dependent or fixed variables (which serve as a control group). These have to be contrasted with the independent variables, which are those that the researcher manipulates to obtain certain results. controlled conditions. The experiments are applied under rigorously controlled conditions to be clear about the factors that affect the behavior of the object of study. Manipulation of variables. The experiment is introduced or provoked by the researcher, who deliberately manipulates the independent variables to obtain various results, always under controlled and rigorous conditions. Observation of the object of study. The researcher must observe the behavior of the object of study in each of the scenarios built for it, from which he will be able to obtain more or less conclusive data.
TYPES Experimental research is divided into various types according to the design, which in turn depends on the objectives set by the researcher. These design types are:
1. Pre-experimental design In this experimental research design, only one variable is analyzed and it is not manipulated, so a control group is not necessary. 2. True experimental design It aims to establish the relationship between causes and effects based on a strict control protocol. It is based on statistical analysis to prove or refute the hypothesis. That is why it is considered the most precise type of experimental research. 3. Quasi-experimental design They are characterized by establishing study groups without random selection.
STEPS OF Experimental Research Identify and define the problem Select sample of the subject Specify the independent variable (s) Specify the dependent variable (s) Select or conduct instruments to measures outcomes Determine the place, time and duration of experiment Analysis and conclusion
Factors Affecting Experimental Research History Pre testing Measuring Instruments Interaction of factor Experimental procedures Multiple treatment interference
Ways in which experimental research differs from other educational researches are TWO WAYS 1. Decide the nature of treatment To whom it is to be applied To what extent 2. Enables researchers to go Beyond description Beyond the identification of relationships
Benefits Of Experimental Research Experimental research is generally recognized as the most appropriate method. Ideal for establishing whether one or more caused change in an outcome
Limitation of Experimental research Can impose artificially on the situation Perfectly controlled conditions are generally not possible in authentic educational environment . Experimental research may be able to tell that one method of instruction is better than conventional practice but may not be able to specify why May not be able to pinpoint the mechanism