Characteristics of Quantitative Observational Research Design

Question 1

Where is a Quantitative Observational Research Design set in?

Answer 1

In a naturalistic setting (real-world).

“field-setting”: outside

Question 2

What are the pre-existing variables?

Answer 2

The independent variable is naturally occuring

Question 3

What are the Pros of a Quantitative Observational Research Design?

Answer 3

• Allows researchers to investigate a pre-existing variable that would be impossible or unethical to manipulate.
• Allows for a naturalistic setting that reflects real-world

Question 4

What are the Cons of a Quantitative Observational Research Design?

Answer 4

• Almost (little) no control over extraneous variables. (low validity)
• Does not infer strong cause and effect because IV pre-exists? or too many extraneous variables.
• Difficult to replicate
• No random allocation
• Observer bias (different interpretation of results)