Final answer:
An experimental study to explore the connection between self-esteem and test performance involves dividing students into control and experimental groups, applying an intervention to boost self-esteem to the experimental group, and using statistical analysis to measure differences in test performance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The experimental study design for examining the relationship between self-esteem and test performance in the field of social psychology involves setting up a controlled environment where variables can be manipulated and the effects observed. The hypothesis could suggest that enhancing a student's self-esteem will improve their test performance. To test this hypothesis, a sample of students would be divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group would receive an intervention aimed at boosting self-esteem, while the control group would not receive this intervention. Following the intervention, both groups would be tested on their performance in an academic test. Statistical analysis would be applied to determine if there is a significant difference in test performance between the two groups, with the level of significance typically set at 5 percent or less to limit false positive claims.