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How to Set Up an Experimental Design

Experimental designs are widely used methods for scientific experiments. There are two different types of experimental design: randomized (true) experimental and quasi-experimental. Randomized or true experimental design is considered the most accurate method whereas quasi-experimental design is often regarded as unscientific. With either experimental design you are trying to prove that a certain factor causes a certain outcome and, conversely, that without that factor the outcome does not occur; this is called internal validity. An experimental design seeks to prove or disprove a hypothesis by analyzing the statistics gathered mathematically through the course of the experiment.

Instructions

  1. Randomized (True) Experimental Design

    • 1

      Decide on a hypothesis--what you are trying to prove or disprove.

    • 2

      Randomly assign your sample group to either the control group or the experimental group.

    • 3

      Apply the desired variable to the experimental group.

    • 4

      Track the results of the experiment with a spreadsheet or statistical analysis software.

    • 5

      Analyze the results of your experiment and form conclusions.

    Quasi-Experimental Design

    • 6

      Decide on a hypothesis--what you are trying to prove or disprove.

    • 7

      Select two groups--the control group and the experimental group. For example, divide a classroom into halves, the left half and the right half. No random assignment is used.

    • 8

      Apply the desired variable to the experimental group.

    • 9

      Track the results of the experiment with a spreadsheet or statistical analysis software.

    • 10

      Analyze the results of your experiment and form conclusions.

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