Experiment as a Research Method: an agenda for discussion

Based on Bailey (1994), I produce the following agenda to examine the topic of Experiment as a Research Method:

1. Advantages and disadvantages of using experiment as a research method
2. Degree of closure (i.e.  the extent the investigator can control the relevant variables)
3. The basic logic of experiments and experimental design:
•  Use of Experimental group and Control group
• Randomization and simple matching
• One Experimental Group or Multiple-group Design
• Interaction effect
4. Field Experiments (e.g. experiments conducted in a natural environment)
5. Quasi-experimentation
6. Evaluation criteria of validity and reliability

Lecture notes:
Note 1

Note 2

Note 3

References

1. Bailey, K.D. (1994) "Chapter 9: Experiments", Methods of Social Resarch, Free Press.
2. Internet link: http://www.visionlearning.com/library/module_viewer.php?mid=150