The research design that does not manipulate the independent variable is

• A. Non-experimental design
• B. Experimental design
• C. Quasi-experimental design
• D. Quantitative design

Answer: (A)

Non-experimental designs involve observing variables as they occur without changing or manipulating the independent variable. Researchers collect data in natural settings or from existing records to describe relationships, patterns, or differences. Because there’s no deliberate alteration of the IV, these designs can show associations but not definitive causal effects.

For example, studying whether hours of sleep correlate with memory test scores by measuring both variables in a sample, without assigning people to sleep a certain number of hours, illustrates a non-experimental approach.

In contrast, experimental designs deliberately manipulate the independent variable to test causal effects and use random assignment or tight control to reduce confounds. Quasi-experimental designs involve some manipulation but lack full randomization or control, while quantitative design is a broad approach focused on numeric data and can encompass both experimental and non-experimental methods.