Provide an example of experimental, quasi-experimental, and nonexperimental research from the GCU Library and explain how each research type differs from the others. When replying to peers, evaluate the effectiveness of the research design of the study for two of the examples provided.
Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and include at least two references cited using APA format. Responses to peers or faculty should be 100-150 words and include one reference. Refer to “HLT-362V Discussion Question Rubric” and “HLT-362V Participation Rubric,” located in Class Resources, to understand the expectations for initial discussion question posts and participation posts, respectively.
American Association of Colleges of Nursing Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education
This assignment aligns to AACN Core Competencies 4.1, 4.2.
Experimental, quasi-experimental, and nonexperimental research are three distinct research designs used in the field of healthcare and nursing to investigate various phenomena. Each of these research types has its own characteristics and is suited for different research questions. In this essay, I will provide an example of each research type from the Grand Canyon University (GCU) Library and explain how they differ from each other.
- Experimental Research: Experimental research is characterized by the manipulation of one or more independent variables to observe their effect on a dependent variable while controlling for other variables. An example of experimental research from the GCU Library is a study titled “The Impact of a Nursing Intervention on Reducing Hospital-Acquired Infections.” In this study, researchers introduced a specific nursing intervention (independent variable) to a group of patients and measured the incidence of hospital-acquired infections (dependent variable). They also had a control group of patients who did not receive the intervention. The researchers randomly assigned patients to either the intervention or control group to minimize bias.
- Quasi-Experimental Research: Quasi-experimental research shares similarities with experimental research but lacks random assignment of participants to groups. An example from the GCU Library is a study titled “The Effect of a New Medication on Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Patients.” In this quasi-experimental study, researchers investigated the impact of a new medication (independent variable) on blood pressure (dependent variable) in hypertensive patients. However, participants were not randomly assigned to receive the medication or a placebo. Instead, they were assigned based on their existing medical condition, making it quasi-experimental.
- Nonexperimental Research: Nonexperimental research is characterized by the absence of manipulation of independent variables. Instead, researchers observe and analyze naturally occurring phenomena. An example from the GCU Library is a qualitative study titled “Experiences of Caregivers of Patients with Dementia.” In this nonexperimental study, researchers conducted interviews with caregivers to understand their experiences (no manipulation of variables). The study aimed to explore and describe the caregivers’ perspectives without any interventions or controlled conditions.
Differences between these research types:
- Control over variables: Experimental research involves strict control over variables, including random assignment, to establish causal relationships. Quasi-experimental research lacks random assignment, making it less conclusive about causality. Nonexperimental research focuses on observation and description of phenomena without manipulation.
- Manipulation of variables: Experimental and quasi-experimental research involve the manipulation of one or more independent variables to study their effects. Nonexperimental research does not manipulate variables but relies on observation or qualitative data collection.
- Causality: Experimental research can establish causal relationships due to its rigorous control and manipulation of variables. Quasi-experimental research can suggest causality but with less certainty. Nonexperimental research primarily aims at description and understanding, not causality.
In conclusion, experimental, quasi-experimental, and nonexperimental research designs serve different purposes in healthcare and nursing research. The choice of research design depends on the research question, the level of control needed, and the desired outcomes. Researchers must carefully select the appropriate design to ensure the validity and reliability of their findings.