Evaluate the following research designs with respect to
methods used and the control provided. Make suggestions for improvements if
needed.
a. A researcher wanted to ascertain if homogeneous grouping
improves learning in a fi rst course in biology. The researcher designated one
of two high schools in a small city to serve as the experimental school and the
other as the control. Both schools had approximately the same number of
students in each of four sections of science. In the experimental school,
pupils were grouped homogeneously on the basis of aptitude and scores on
achievement tests in science. In the control school, pupils were placed in
sections at random. At the end of the year, all pupils were given a
standardized test in biology. Statistical tests showed the experimental group
to be superior on the test. The researcher concluded that homogeneous grouping
results in greater learning in biology.
b. A history teacher was concerned about her students’ lack
of knowledge of their state and national governments and of current events. She
decided to experiment with some new materials and methods to determine if she
could obtain improvement. In classes A and B, she introduced the new materials
and methods. In classes C and D, she used the traditional methods. Classes A
and B were administered both the pretest and the posttest; classes C and D were
administered only the posttest. When comparisons were made on the posttest, classes
A and B were found to be superior. Their superior performance was attributed to
the new materials and methods.
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