A researcher studies language development by selecting a sample of two-year-old children, a sample of three-year-old children, and a sample of four-year-old children. Each child's language skill is measured and the researcher plans to compare the scores for the three groups. This study is an example of a(n) ____.
A) time-series design
B) interrupted time-series design
C) cross-sectional developmental design
D) longitudinal developmental design

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The study uses a cross-sectional design because it involves comparing different age groups (two-year-olds, three-year-olds, and four-year-olds) at one point in time, rather than following the same group of children over time (longitudinal design) or measuring the same group both before and after an intervention (interrupted time-series design).

A Researcher Studies Language Development by Selecting a Sample of Two-Year-Old