FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of descriptive research?

1. Data is collected to describe phenomena

2. It involves random sampling

3. It manipulates independent variables

4. It aims to outline demographic characteristics

The correct answer is: It manipulates independent variables

Descriptive research is primarily focused on providing a detailed account of characteristics and patterns within a particular phenomenon or group without manipulating variables. This type of research aims to describe aspects such as demographics, behaviors, and attitudes among a subject group. The correct choice highlights that descriptive research does not manipulate independent variables, which is a defining feature. Unlike experimental research, where researchers actively change or control variables to observe effects, descriptive research simply observes and reports without intervention. This characteristic allows for an accurate portrayal of what is being studied, which can then inform further research or hypotheses. The other characteristics mentioned are integral to descriptive research. For instance, data collection to describe phenomena is foundational to this approach, as is the goal to outline demographic characteristics of populations being studied. While random sampling can be a part of the methodology, it is not a defining feature of descriptive research as it can vary based on the design and goals of the study. Thus, the manipulation of independent variables stands out as the correct answer since it contradicts the essence of descriptive research.