Experimental Method, Otherwise Known as Quantitative Research

¶ … experimental method, otherwise known as quantitative research or laboratory study, is to formulate a hypotheses, to collect the data, and test this hypotheses according to scientific principles that obstruct, as carefully as possible, bias, and then to analyze this data using statistical measures. The experimental method uses random sampling as part of its discourse. Practical considerations usually limit the amount of control we have in structuring experiments, for instance we cannot always hope to randomize; we sometimes (more usually) often have to make do with the sample of participants given.

This is when quasi-experimentation is employed. This particular study is a quasi-experiment Levels of measurement of the variables There were two levels / conditions: (1) inquiry-based science curriculum and (ii) an inquiry-based science curriculum and reading strategy instruction Types of statistics used to analyze the data and generate results Three types of relevant psychological instruments were used to measure science literacy.

An ANVOC (analysis of covariance) was then conducted used pretest as covariance and posttest as dependent variable, Inferences that can be drawn from result Even a small amount of reading on science-related issues could positively affect the science literacy of middle school students (and possibly of individuals in general) Reliability, validity, genralizability Reliability refers to the constancy or stability of the experimental affect -- it has to prove capable of replication in future studies. This is similar to generalization.

Validity refers to the soundness of the study: whether or not the experiment explains what it claims to explain. The generalizability and reliability is somewhat problematic her since although from 10 classes, they were form one school, therefore characteristics particular to that school, student body, geographical, location etc. may prevent results from being applied to another locality or school.

As regards validity, exhaustive methods were taken to prevent bias and to keep as close to objective as possible, nonetheless at least one confounding variable intruded in that reading educators and two 6th-grade science teachers were included in the study. How the applications of the designs differ Ex post Facto experimentation -- retrospective -- after the experiment. Subjects are not randomly assigned to treatment (as in experimental).

The sampling: rational and techniques It is often a convenience sample using a control or comparison groups where intact groups are used, and the treatment -- as opposed to experimental or quasi-are not manipulated but has already occurred. Data collection techniques In this case, data was extracted from 30 middle grade schools that had participated in various data collection methods. Levels of measurement of the variables 6 categories of factors effecting education in high poverty middle grades schools were examined.

Types of statistics used to analyze the data and generate results Principal axis factoring using varimax rotation was applied to teachers' questionnaires. MANOVA was used to examine relationships among leadership, climate, and school outcomes Inferences that can be drawn.