What is a characteristic of quasi-experimental studies?

Quasi-experimental studies are characterized by the manipulation of independent variables while lacking randomization and control over extraneous factors in the same way that true experimental designs do. The core idea is that these studies allow researchers to investigate causal relationships even when random assignment to different groups is not possible or ethical.

In quasi-experimental designs, researchers may implement interventions or treatments and subsequently observe the effects on outcomes, but since there is no randomization, there can be significant confounding variables that may influence the results. This type of design can be beneficial in real-world settings where controlled experiments are impractical or impossible, allowing for valuable insights without the strict controls of a traditional experimental setup.

This distinguishing characteristic of quasi-experimental studies is what allows researchers to still derive conclusions about correlational relationships and trends in the absence of randomization, which is a crucial aspect in understanding their limitations compared to randomized controlled trials.