When researchers conduct research by analyzing data that has already been collected for some other purpose, it is referred to as b) ex post facto research.
Ex post facto research designs compare groups of already existing characteristics based on a dependent variable.
Ex post facto designs, also referred to as "after the fact" research, are regarded as quasi-experimental since the subjects are classified according to a specific characteristic or trait rather than being assigned at random.
Because there is no random assignment, even when different groups are evaluated and compared in terms of independent and dependent variables, it is not a true experiment. Depending on the variable that interests the researchers, subjects are divided into various groups.
For instance, a researcher is interested in how adults' self-esteem levels are influenced by their weight. The individuals' levels of self-esteem would then be determined after grouping them into various categories (underweight, normal weight, and overweight).
To know more about ex post facto:
https://brainly.com/question/29332021
#SPJ4
