According to the course content on the causal limitations of quasi-experimental research, what two specific design features are absent in this type of research, and what is the consequence of their absence on a researcher's ability to draw causal conclusions?
Question: According to the course content on the causal limitations of quasi-experimental research, what two specific design features are absent in this type of research, and what is the consequence of their absence on a researcher's ability to draw causal conclusions?
Sample answer: Quasi-experimental research lacks random assignment and counterbalancing. Because these features are absent, researchers cannot confidently rule out confounding variables—defined as pre-existing differences between conditions—as the true cause of the observed outcomes, preventing them from definitively establishing cause-and-effect relationships.
Key points:
- Absence of random assignment
- Absence of counterbalancing
- Inability to rule out confounding variables (pre-existing differences)
- Failure to definitively establish cause-and-effect relationships
Rubric: To receive full credit, the student must: 1. Identify 'random assignment' as one of the absent design features. 2. Identify 'counterbalancing' as the other absent design feature. 3. State that the absence of these features means researchers cannot confidently rule out confounding variables or pre-existing differences between conditions. 4. Explain that, as a result, cause-and-effect relationships cannot be definitively established.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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