Which of the following is NOT a main type of research design in criminal justice?

Which of the following is NOT a main type of research design in criminal justice?

• A. Descriptive design
• B. Correlational design
• C. Speculative design
• D. Experimental design

Answer: (C)

The correct choice, speculative design, is not recognized as a main type of research design in criminal justice. Research designs are classified primarily into three categories: descriptive, correlational, and experimental designs. Descriptive design focuses on providing an accurate account of characteristics or behaviors within a specific population or setting without manipulating variables, giving a straightforward understanding of the situation. Correlational design examines the relationships between variables to identify patterns or associations without inferring direct causation. Experimental design involves the manipulation of one or more independent variables to determine their effect on a dependent variable while allowing researchers to establish causality. Speculative design, however, does not fit into these established categories. It suggests a hypothetical or theoretical approach without the rigorous structure and empirical testing associated with recognized research designs. In the context of criminal justice, it is essential to utilize research designs that allow for systematic investigation and valid conclusions.

The correct choice, speculative design, is not recognized as a main type of research design in criminal justice. Research designs are classified primarily into three categories: descriptive, correlational, and experimental designs.

Descriptive design focuses on providing an accurate account of characteristics or behaviors within a specific population or setting without manipulating variables, giving a straightforward understanding of the situation. Correlational design examines the relationships between variables to identify patterns or associations without inferring direct causation. Experimental design involves the manipulation of one or more independent variables to determine their effect on a dependent variable while allowing researchers to establish causality.

Speculative design, however, does not fit into these established categories. It suggests a hypothetical or theoretical approach without the rigorous structure and empirical testing associated with recognized research designs. In the context of criminal justice, it is essential to utilize research designs that allow for systematic investigation and valid conclusions.