Page 62 - DLIS401_METHODOLOGY_OF_RESEARCH_AND_STATISTICAL_TECHNIQUES

Unit 4: Historical and Experimental Research Methods

(b) Quantitative facts may also be biased in the types of statistical data collected or in Notes
how that information was interpreted by the researcher.
2. There are many factors that can contribute to “historical episodes”.
3. Evidence should not be examined from a singular point of view.

The resources that follow this brief introduction to the historical method in research provide
resources for further in-depth explanations about this research method in various fields of
study, and abstracts of studies conducted using this method.

4.2 Experimental Research Methods

Experimental research designs can be used where: (1) There is time priority in a causal relationship
(cause precedes effect), (2) There is consistency in a causal relationship (a cause will always
lead to the same effect), and (3) The magnitude of the correlation is great. The most common
applications of these designs in marketing research and experimental economics are test markets
and purchase labs. The techniques are commonly used in other social sciences including sociology,
psychology and social work.

4.2.1 Experimental Research Designs

In an attempt to control for extraneous factors, several experimental research designs have
been developed, including:
• Classical pretest-post test - The total population of participants is randomly divided
into two samples; the control sample, and the experimental sample. Only the experimental
sample is exposed to the manipulated variable. The researcher compares the pretest
results with the post test results for both samples. Any divergence between the two
samples is assumed to be a result of the experiment.
• Solomon four group design - The population is randomly divided into four samples.
Two of the groups are experimental samples. Two groups experience no experimental
manipulation of variables. Two groups receive a pretest and a post test. Two groups
receive only a post test. This is an improvement over the classical design because it
controls for the effect of the pretest.
• Factorial design – This is similar to a classical design except additional samples are
used. Each group is exposed to a different experimental manipulation.

4.3 Case Study Research

Case study research excels at bringing us to an understanding of a complex issue or object and
can extend experience or add strength to what is already known through previous research.
Case studies emphasize detailed contextual analysis of a limited number of events or conditions
and their relationships. Researchers have used the case study research method for many years
across a variety of disciplines. Social scientists, in particular, have made wide use of this
qualitative research method to examine contemporary real-life situations and provide the
basis for the application of ideas and extension of methods. Researcher Robert K. Yin defines
the case study research method as an empirical inquiry that investigates a contemporary
phenomenon within its real-life context; when the boundaries between phenomenon and context
are not clearly evident; and in which multiple sources of evidence are used.

Critics of the case study method believe that the study of a small number of cases can offer
no grounds for establishing reliability or generality of findings. Others feel that the intense

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