UGCNET Questions

Experimental research aims to establish cause effect relationships by deliberately changing one variable and observing its effect on another. The researcher manipulates the independent variable while controlling or holding constant other variables that could influence the outcome. This control allows more confident inferences about causality. Thus, manipulation and control are central to experimental design.

Option A:
Option A involves secondary data analysis, which can be part of non experimental or correlational studies but does not by itself define experimentation.

Option B:
Option B correctly identifies the two core requirements: manipulation of an independent variable and control of extraneous factors. Without these, it is difficult to attribute observed changes in the dependent variable to the experimental treatment. Therefore, this feature is essential.

Option C:
Option C describes descriptive research, which observes and records phenomena without intervention. It does not satisfy the requirements of experimental design.

Option D:
Option D refers to large sample selection, which may be useful but is neither necessary nor sufficient for an experiment. Many experiments use relatively small samples yet retain strong internal validity.

Experimental research aims to determine whether changes in one variable cause changes in another. This requires deliberate manipulation of the independent variable and control over other factors that might influence the outcome. By holding extraneous variables constant or randomizing them, the researcher can attribute observed differences in the dependent variable more confidently to the treatment.

Option A:
Option A describes qualitative interviewing, which is useful for exploration but does not by itself establish causality through controlled manipulation.

Option B:
Option B is correct because it combines the two essential ingredients of true experimentation: manipulation and control. Without these, causal claims remain weak or speculative.

Option C:
Option C refers to biased selection of participants, which can threaten internal validity and does not help in establishing causal relationships.

Option D:
Option D mentions very small samples and lack of control group, both of which weaken the ability to infer causality and generalize findings.