Research done after the event is known as
- Ex Post Facto
- Pre Test, Post Test
- Solomon Four Group Design
- Focus Group
Correct Ans: (A)
Explanation:
Researchers use the Ex Post Facto method when they want to study something that has already happened. Instead of controlling variables or manipulating conditions, they look back at past events to find connections between causes and outcomes.
For example, imagine a study on how exposure to violent TV shows affects behavior. In this case, the researcher can’t go back and change what people watched. But they can analyze existing records, survey people, or review data to understand the possible effects. That’s where this method fits perfectly.
Moreover, this approach allows researchers to work with real-world situations without influencing the outcome. It helps uncover trends, test theories, and analyze patterns—especially when ethical or practical limits prevent real-time experiments.
Although it doesn’t offer full control like experimental designs, it still delivers valuable insights. Researchers just need to be careful about jumping to conclusions. Correlation doesn’t always mean causation.
Therefore, the correct answer is Ex Post Facto. It allows us to learn from the past, spot relationships, and apply findings to current media, behavior, or communication trend
