EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH

EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH

" Experimental Research is defined as observation under controlled conditions" . - Sidhu. " Experimental research provides a systemic and logical method for answering the

question, if this is done under careful controlled conditions, what will happen. - Best.

The aim of the experimental research is to investigate the possible cause-and-effect relationship by manipulating one independent variable to influence the other variables) in the experimental group, and by controlling the other relevant variables, and measuring the effects of the manipulation by some statistical means. By manipulating the independent variable, the researcher can see if the treatment makes a difference on the subjects.

If the average scores of two groups prove to be significantly different, and if there are not any explanations for this difference, then it can be concluded that the effect of the treatment caused this difference. This is where experimental research differs from correlational research, for instance, correlational studies only describe or predict the strong relationship) between socioeconomic level and the academic achievement but cannot prove the direct cause-and-effect relationship between these two variables. It is the experimental research which can demonstrate that by changing the independent variable, a change is possible on the dependent variable.

Experimental method is a scientific method. It proved a systemic and logical method for answering the question. It attempts to establish cause and effect relationships. That is an independent variable is manipulated to judge its effect upon dependent variable.

The essence of experimentation lies in the attempt to control all the essential factors except one variable which is manipulated in such a manner that the effects of its operation can be determined and measured.

PLANNING THE EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH

The experimental Research is intended to deal with dynamics, forces and interactions, and is not intended to give merely a descriptive picture of a static situation or a usual growth pattern. The following list of steps will give a picture a picture of the work one may have to do in experimental research.

1. Identifying and Defining the Problem

The experimental research starts with the selection of the problem. The problem should be defined in precise terms. The variables to be investigated should be defined in operational terms.

2. Reviewing the Literature relating to the Problem

After selecting the problem, the related literature and experiments should be reviewed and the experimental design should be planned and outlined.

3. Stating hypothesis

Hypothesis plays a vital role in the experimental research. The researcher has to formulate the hypothesis that can be verified by the experimental data.

4. Drawing the Experimental Design

An experimental design is to the researcher what a blue print is to an architect. The selected design should be appropriate for testing the hypothesis of the study. It should provide adequate control over the study.

5. Defining the Population

It is necessary to define the population precisely so that there can be no question about the population to which the conclusions are to apply.

6. Carrying out the study and measuring the out comes

The Variables has to be administered to the subjects based on the experimental design. It also involves controlling variable, applying the experimental factors, and maintaining the records of procedure and collecting the data.

7. Analysing and interpreting the data

This section deals with expert use of statistical procedures. With the help of proper statistical procedure valid interpretation can be made.

8. Drawing up the conclusions and reporting the Results

Conclusions about the study should be made and it should be reported. The conclusions of the study must be restricted to the population actually covered. One must not fall to recognize the limitations under using the conclusions. Results should be reported in sufficient detail so that the reader can make judgment as to its adequacy.