Final answer:
A correlational study is not preferred for experimental research as it does not establish causal relationships, unlike observational, survey, and quasi-experimental research, which identify associations between variables when experiments are not feasible.
Step-by-step explanation:
A correlational study would be a preferred methodology for all the following EXCEPT experimental research. This is because correlational studies do not seek to establish cause-and-effect relationships but rather focus on identifying the relationships or associations between two or more variables.
On the other hand, experimental research involves the manipulation of variables to determine causal links. Therefore, when determining a cause-and-effect relationship, an experimental study, not a correlational study, is the appropriate methodology.
Observational research, survey research, and quasi-experimental research can all appropriately use correlational studies. These types of research are usually employed when experiments are not feasible due to practical, ethical, or logistical reasons. They often involve surveys, natural observations, or analyzing existing records to determine correlations.