Module 3C Experimental Design in Strength and Conditioning Research

Experimental Design in Strength and Conditioning Research

Focus on quantitative experimental design due to its prevalence in strength and conditioning research.
Qualitative designs are acknowledged, with a recommendation to read the article by Page for more information.

Common in strength and conditioning research, often involving one or two unmatched groups.
Threats to validity are not well-controlled, limiting the ability to generalize results.
Samples are selected using purposive or convenience sampling rather than random sampling.
Example: One-group pre-post test design.
- Athletes are tested, undergo training, and are then retested.
- Limited inference due to the absence of a comparison group, making it difficult to attribute changes to the experimental treatment.

Employs control strategies like random sampling, random group assignment, and controlled measurements to mitigate threats to validity.
Includes a control group that undergoes pre- and post-testing but does not receive the experimental treatment.
The control group helps assess whether changes in performance are due to the treatment or random variation.
Involves a "within-between" design, comparing changes within groups over time and between groups.
Statistical analysis often involves a factorial ANOVA.
Can be expanded to include multiple treatment groups with different interventions, as long as a control group is present.
Called a randomized controlled trial when participants are randomly sampled and assigned.

Similar to true experimental designs, but group allocation may not be random.
Groups might be "strength matched" to control for variables like sex differences.
Other threats to validity (environmental factors, testing methods) are controlled.
Controls for learning effects by familiarizing participants with tests.

Describes the current situation using multiple methods, both qualitative and quantitative.
Common in strength and conditioning literature.
- Survey-based research: Examines coaching behaviors, information sourcing, and preferred mediums.
- Interviews: A qualitative approach, exemplified by the velocity-based training interview paper, to understand implementation and barriers.
- Correlational research: Explores relationships between variables.
- Normative research: Establishes performance standards within a population, providing a baseline for comparison.
Example: Countermovement jump height in rugby league athletes, separated by forwards and backs.

Based on inductive reasoning to generate hypotheses.
Aids in developing a broader understanding of the field, including social and political impacts.
Focuses on discovery and understanding underlying phenomena.
Research design is flexible, using methods like long-form interviews to derive thematic narratives.
Less common in strength and conditioning due to a quantitative bias.

Highlights the need for more qualitative research to understand the "why" behind observed phenomena, complementing the profession's strength in measurement.