What makes two case studies experimental?

Two case studies are considered experimental when they involve the manipulation of variables and the comparison of outcomes between different groups or conditions. In experimental case studies, researchers actively intervene or manipulate one or more variables to observe the effects on the outcome of interest. This allows researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships and draw conclusions about the effectiveness of the intervention or treatment being studied. Experimental case studies typically involve random assignment of participants to different groups or conditions, control of extraneous variables, and the use of standardized measures to assess outcomes.

To qualify as experimental, two case studies must meet the following criteria:

- Manipulation of the independent variable: The researcher must actively introduce or change the independent variable for one group but not the other. This allows for a causal inference to be made about the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable.
- Randomization: Participants must be randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups to ensure that the two groups are equivalent in all respects except for the independent variable. This helps to rule out the possibility that any observed differences between the groups are due to factors other than the independent variable.
- Control group: The study must include a control group that does not receive the experimental treatment. This group serves as a basis for comparison to the experimental group, allowing the researcher to determine whether the observed effects are actually due to the independent variable or to other factors.

Without these three elements, a case study cannot be considered an experimental study. Instead, it would be classified as a quasi-experimental or observational study.