Identifying Experimental Research: A Case Study with Jason's Online Game

Jason is conducting a study to see if playing an online game affects test scores. He divides his participants into two groups and gives both groups a pre-test. One group, the treatment group, then plays the online game, while the other group, the control group, works on worksheets. Finally, Jason gives both groups a post-test. This type of research design strongly indicates:

B. Experimental research

Here's why: Experimental research involves manipulating a variable (the online game) to observe its effect on another variable (test scores). Key elements of experimental research present in Jason's study include:

• Treatment and Control Groups: Jason uses both a treatment group (receiving the online game) and a control group (receiving worksheets) to isolate the effect of the game.
• Pre-test and Post-test: The pre-test measures baseline test scores, while the post-test measures any changes in scores after the intervention, allowing for comparison and analysis of the game's impact.

This structured approach helps determine a cause-and-effect relationship between the online game and test scores, a hallmark of experimental research.