Erin analyzed data from a national cancer registry to pinpoint likely sites where groundwater has been contaminated by carcinogens. Her re-examination of existing records illustrates which nonexperimental design? Group of answer choices a. Archival study b. Correlational study c. Ex post facto study d. Field experiment
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is a. Archival study.
An archival study involves the analysis of existing data, records, or documents that were collected for other purposes. In Erin’s case, she is using data from a national cancer registry, which was likely collected for public health monitoring or similar objectives, not specifically for her study. By re-examining these existing records, Erin is conducting an archival study.
An archival study is a type of nonexperimental design because the researcher does not manipulate any variables. Instead, they analyze data that has already been collected. This design is useful when it is not feasible or ethical to conduct a new experimental study, such as when working with sensitive health data like cancer incidence. The focus of an archival study is typically on patterns or trends within the existing data, rather than on establishing cause and effect.
In this case, Erin is looking for patterns of cancer incidence in areas that might be linked to groundwater contamination, potentially identifying correlations between these variables. Since she is using pre-existing data rather than actively manipulating the environment or subject, the design cannot be classified as a correlational study, which typically focuses on relationships between variables but might involve active measurement or control of some aspects of the study.
An ex post facto study, which is another possible answer, involves investigating the causes of an already existing condition after it has occurred. However, this type of study would be more applicable if Erin was comparing the cancer incidence in areas with known contamination versus areas without contamination, rather than simply analyzing existing records without this distinct comparison.
Lastly, a field experiment would involve manipulating variables in a natural setting to observe effects, but Erin is not conducting an experiment, so this is not the correct choice.