A research question in experimental-type research has which of the following characteristics?
A It broadly reflects multiple problem statements.
B It is posted a priori or before entering the field.
C It can be changed midstream in the study.
D It may be both descriptive and predictive.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B: It is posted a priori or before entering the field.
In experimental-type research, the research question is typically formulated before the research is conducted. This means that the question is posed a priori, or prior to data collection and the initiation of the study. This allows the researcher to design the study in a way that specifically addresses the question. A research question is central in guiding the design and methodology of the experiment, ensuring that data collection and analysis are structured to answer it.
Experimental research is focused on establishing cause-and-effect relationships, and as such, the research question must be precise and clear from the outset. By formulating the question ahead of time, researchers are able to define variables, control conditions, and choose the correct experimental design to ensure that the study produces valid and reliable results.
Option A, “It broadly reflects multiple problem statements,” is not correct because experimental research questions are usually more focused, aiming to test specific hypotheses about cause-and-effect relationships, rather than broadly addressing multiple problems.
Option C, “It can be changed midstream in the study,” is also incorrect because changing the research question mid-study would compromise the study’s design and methodology, making the results less reliable.
Option D, “It may be both descriptive and predictive,” is misleading because experimental research questions are more often predictive in nature, aiming to determine the effects of one variable on another. Descriptive research, on the other hand, aims to describe characteristics or phenomena and does not typically involve manipulation of variables.
In summary, a research question in experimental-type research is typically posted before the research begins, and this allows for a focused and controlled study design.