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Define cross-sequential research and describe how its structure combines elements of both cross-sectional and longitudinal research designs.
Question: Define cross-sequential research and describe how its structure combines elements of both cross-sectional and longitudinal research designs.
Sample answer: Cross-sequential research is a non-experimental design that combines cross-sectional and longitudinal methodologies. In this approach, researchers select multiple pre-existing age groups (similar to a cross-sectional study) and follow them over a shorter, targeted period of time (similar to a longitudinal study).
Key points:
- Cross-sequential research is a non-experimental design.
- It combines elements of both cross-sectional and longitudinal studies.
- It involves selecting multiple pre-existing age groups.
- It tracks these groups over a shorter, targeted period of time.
Rubric: To receive full credit, the answer must define cross-sequential research as a non-experimental design, identify the cross-sectional element of selecting multiple pre-existing age groups, and identify the longitudinal element of tracking these groups over a targeted period of time.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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