Survey, Experiments, or Observational Studies

Researchers wanted to know if there is a link between proximity to high-tension wires and the rate of leukemia in children. To conduct the study, researchers compared the rate of leukemia for children who lived within 1/2 mile of high-tension wires to the rate of leukemia for children who did not live within 1/2 mile of high-tension wires.

• Observational Study

• Experiment

Rats with cancer are divided into two groups. One group receives 5 milligrams of a medication that is thought to fight cancer and the other receives 10 mg. After 2 years, the spread of cancer is measured.

• Observational Study

• Experiment

Seventh grade students are randomly divided into 2 groups. One group is taught math online while the second group is taught traditionally. After 1 year, each group is given an achievement test to compare proficiency.

• Observational Study

• Experiment

A poll is conducted in which 500 people are asked whom they plan to vote for in the upcoming election.

• Observational Study

• Experiment

A survey is conducted asking 400 people, "Do you prefer Coke or Pepsi?"

• Observational Study

• Experiment

While shopping, 200 people are asked to perform a taste test in which they drink from two randomly placed, unmarked cups. They are then asked which drink they prefer.

• Observational Study

• Experiment

Sixty patients with carpal tunnel syndrome are randomly divided into two groups. One group is treated weekly with both acupuncture and an exercise regimen. The other is treated weekly with the exact same exercise regimen but no acupuncture. After one year, both groups are questioned about their level of pain due to carpal tunnel syndrome.

• Observational Study

• Experiment

Conservation agents netted 250 large-mouth bass in a lake and determined how many were carrying parasites.

• Observational Study

• Experiment