Non Experimental and Experimental Methods

Two critical factors that distinguish quantitative experimental research from quantitative non experimental research are manipulation of treatments and randomization. Experimental designs are often preferred, as they control for unwanted variance and reduce threats to internal validity.

However, sometimes the use of non experimental research is preferred when variables cannot be manipulated or random assignment is not possible.

Compare and contrast non experimental and experimental techniques with respect to their aim of the research, and their strengths and weaknesses. Consider the concepts of experimental control, causality, randomization, and the third variable problem in your discussion.

Provide one example of when a non experimental method would be used and one example of when an experimental method would be used. Post should be at least 300 words.