A true experimental design in research is characterized by the following properties; EXCEPT:

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur NO - 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The Hawthorne effect is a form of reactivity or bias, not a fundamental property of experimental design.
It describes the phenomenon where study participants may alter their behavior simply because they are aware they are being observed.
True experimental designs are defined by manipulation, control, and randomization; these are methods to establish causality and reduce bias, whereas the Hawthorne effect is a type of bias itself.

Option A: Randomization is one of the three essential characteristics of a true experimental design.
Option B: Manipulation is a core, defining property of any experimental study.
Option D: Control is a fundamental characteristic of a true experimental design.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Characteristics of a true experimental design in research as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the components of a true experimental design is crucial for nurses to critically appraise research studies and apply evidence-based practice (EBP).
When evaluating a study on a new clinical intervention, a nurse can check for manipulation, control, and randomization to determine the strength and reliability of the evidence.
What if? If a study testing a new patient education program on diabetes management does not have a control group, a nurse cannot be sure if improvements in patient outcomes are due to the new program or simply due to the extra attention patients received. This is why control is essential.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the keyword 'EXCEPT' in the question stem. This signals that you need to find the option that does not fit with the others.
Next, recall the definition and core principles of a 'true experimental design.' The three essential characteristics are Manipulation, Control, and Randomization.
Evaluate each option against these three core principles.
Recognize that 'Randomization,' 'Manipulation,' and 'Control' are all defining features of this research design.
Identify 'Hawthorne effect' as a term related to research bias, where subjects' behavior changes because they are being observed. It is a potential problem in a study, not a required component of its design.
Conclude that the Hawthorne effect is the correct answer because it is the exception among the given options.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 NursingResearch Sukhpal Kaur p. 183-185

E6 NursingResearch Polit 11e Part 1 p. 192-194

Practise the full AIIMS Raipur NO - 2019 (Shift-1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.