Distinguish between cross-sectional and longitudinal research methods. Provide an example of each. Identify at least one advantage and one disadvantage of each type of method.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Students' examples may vary.

Cross-sectional research methods involve comparing people of different ages at the same point in time. For example, a researcher might simultaneously assess the working memory capacity of a group of 5-year-olds, a group of 7-year-olds, and a group of 9-year-olds. By contrast, longitudinal research methods entail examining the same sample of participants at multiple points in time. As an example, a researcher might measure the working memory capacity of a group of children first when they are 5, then when they are 7, and finally when they are 9. Cross-sectional research methods do not require a substantial investment of time. They provide information regarding age differences, but they are susceptible to the potentially confounding influence of cohort effects. Longitudinal research yields a clear picture of changes over time, but it takes years or even decades to conduct a longitudinal study. Participants may leave the study along the way. In addition, the results of longitudinal research may be confounded as participants who take the same test at several points in time may become "test-wise" and perform better each time they take it because they have become more familiar with the test.