CNL 540 Topic 5 Short Answer Questions
Cnl 540 Topic 5 Short Answer Questions
CNL-540 Topic 5: Short Answer Questions Directions: Provide short answers of words each for the following questions/statements. Do not exceed 200 words for your response. Use the textbook, and any other scholarly resources to support your responses. Include at least two to three peer-reviewed journal articles beyond the textbook and course readings. 1. What are the features of quasi-experimental variables and designs? Under what conditions would this type of approach be appropriate? Provide at least one example in your response. 2. What is the primary role and function of action research as applied to counseling psychology?
Paper For Above instruction
Quasi-experimental designs are research methods that resemble experimental designs but lack random assignment to treatment or control groups. Key features include the manipulation of an independent variable, selection of participants based on pre-existing groups, and the use of statistical controls to account for confounding variables. These designs are especially useful when randomization is impractical or unethical, such as in community-based interventions or educational research where participants cannot be randomly assigned due to logistical or ethical constraints. For example, evaluating the effectiveness of a new counseling program in a school setting may involve comparing different schools receiving the program versus those that do not, without random assignment (Shadish, Cook, & Campbell, 2002). Quasi-experimental approaches are appropriate when researchers seek to determine causal relationships within real-world settings where controlling all variables is impossible. They offer a balance between scientific rigor and practical feasibility, making them valuable in applied research (Cook & Campbell, 1979). These designs help practitioners and researchers assess interventions’ impact while respecting ethical and contextual limitations present in counseling and community settings.
Action research in counseling psychology is a participatory, collaborative approach aimed at solving practical problems while simultaneously generating theoretical insights. Its primary role is to empower practitioners and clients by involving them directly in the research process, facilitating change and professional development. Action research emphasizes reflection, cycle-based improvement, and immediate application of findings to real-world issues (Stringer, 2014). In counseling psychology, this methodology supports ongoing program evaluation, ethical practice, and community engagement by fostering a democratic process where stakeholders contribute to understanding and addressing their specific challenges. The ultimate goal is to improve practices, promote social justice, and enhance client outcomes through iterative cycles of planning, action, observation, and reflection (Reason & Bradbury, 2008). This approach aligns with counseling psychology’s emphasis on client-centered care and community-oriented interventions, ensuring that research directly benefits the individuals and groups involved.
References
Cook, T. D., & Campbell, D. T. (1979). Quasi-experimentation: Design & analysis issues for field settings. Houghton Mifflin.
Reason, P., & Bradbury, H. (2008). The SAGE handbook of action research: Participative inquiry and practice. Sage Publications.
Shadish, W. R., Cook, T. D., & Campbell, D. T. (2002). Experimental and quasi-experimental designs for generalized causal inference. Houghton Mifflin.
Stringer, E. T. (2014). Action research. Sage Publications.