UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

The Solomon four-group design uses two groups that receive a pre-test and two that do not, with both pre-tested and non-pre-tested groups being split into treatment and control subgroups. This structure allows researchers to evaluate both the main effect of the treatment and any interaction between pre-testing and treatment. It is particularly useful when there is concern that pre-testing may sensitise participants. Hence, the design mentioned is the Solomon four-group design.

Option A:
Latin refers to the Latin square design, which controls for two extraneous variables arranged in rows and columns; it is a different form of experimental design.

Option B:
The Solomon design maintains random assignment and includes both pre-test and post-test observations for some groups while others receive only post-tests. By comparing patterns across the four groups, researchers can detect testing effects and adjust interpretations accordingly. This comprehensive control for testing effects fits the stem, making this option correct.

Option C:
Factorial designs study the combined effects of two or more independent variables by including all combinations of their levels, but they do not inherently incorporate the four-group structure designed for testing effects.

Option D:
Quasi experimental designs lack full random assignment or control groups and are therefore different from the rigorously controlled Solomon design described.