Question

a researcher is interested in seeing if there is a relationship between the use of a particular software program and the age of the user. the researcher conducts a survey of adults in which she categorizes the respondents into one of two categories, either 18 — 34 years old or 35 years and older.

is the study described as observational or experimental? if it is an experiment, what is the controlled factor?

select the correct answer below:

the study is an experiment. the controlled factor is the software.

the study is an experiment. the controlled factor is the age category.

the study is an observational study.

the study is an experiment. the controlled factor is the survey.

Explanation:

An observational study involves observing and measuring variables without manipulating them. Here, the researcher only surveys and categorizes respondents by age and software use, with no manipulation of variables. An experiment requires controlling or changing a variable, which does not happen here.

Answer:

The study is an observational study.