A ________ entails the collection of data on more than one case (usually quite a lot more than one) and at a single point in time:

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Correct option is A

Cross-sectional research design

A cross-sectional research design refers to the collection of data from multiple cases (or subjects) at one single point in time. It is a snapshot of a specific moment, providing a way to analyze and compare different groups or variables without having to track changes over time. This type of design is useful for understanding the relationships between variables at a particular moment, especially when studying large populations.

In contrast, a longitudinal research design involves the collection of data over extended periods to track changes in variables or conditions over time. Therefore, cross-sectional designs are typically used when researchers are interested in analyzing patterns, differences, or associations between variables at one specific point in time.

Information Booster:

1. Cross-sectional research is typically used in survey research where researchers gather information at one time from multiple subjects or groups.

2. It allows researchers to analyze the relationships between variables, such as attitudes, behaviors, or characteristics, at a specific point in time.

3. Cross-sectional studies are often quicker and less costly to conduct compared to longitudinal studies, as they don't require long-term data collection.

4. These studies are beneficial in public health research, market research, and sociological studies where the goal is to understand the state of a particular issue or population at a particular time.

5. Cross-sectional research is ideal when the objective is to describe and compare different groups, such as comparing age groups, income levels, or regions on a particular characteristic.

Additional Information:

• Longitudinal research design: This type of design follows the same subjects over a long period, collecting data at multiple intervals to track changes over time. Unlike cross-sectional studies, longitudinal designs help assess trends, cause-and-effect relationships, and the long-term impact of variables.

• Both of the above: This option is incorrect because cross-sectional and longitudinal designs serve different purposes and methods. Cross-sectional designs are used for collecting data at a single point in time, whereas longitudinal designs involve repeated data collection over time.