Introduction to Quantitative Research and Research Frameworks

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the notes on research fundamentals, methods, and framework concepts.

Research

A systematic study aimed at discovering truth and generating knowledge.

Objective Truth

Universally accepted facts (e.g., 1 + 1 = 2).

Subjective Truth

Personal opinions or beliefs (e.g., Marcos is a hero).

Purpose of Research

To understand reality, solve problems, and inform decisions—not just to fulfill academic requirements.

Empirically Verifiable

Based on observable and measurable evidence.

Tentative

Always open to revision.

Ethically Neutral

Protects participants’ rights and privacy.

Publicly Shared

Results are disseminated for public benefit.

Quantitative Research

A systematic investigation using numerical data and statistical methods.

Objectivity

Uses math and statistics to eliminate bias.

Large Sample Size

Ensures reliability and reduces personal bias.

Visual Presentation

Data shown in graphs, charts, and tables.

Fast Analysis

Uses statistical tools for quicker results.

Generalizability

Results from samples can apply to larger populations.

Efficient Collection

Uses standardized instruments like questionnaires.

Validity

Measures exactly what it intends to measure.

Reliability

Produces consistent results across repeated studies.

Replicability

Can be repeated to verify and improve findings.

Predictive Ability

Can forecast outcomes using inferential statistics.

Disadvantages of Quantitative Research

Lacks depth in exploring experiences; may miss emotions/beliefs; rigid design; predefined responses; large samples can be costly.

Variable

A characteristic that varies within a group.

Constant

A characteristic that does not vary.

Independent Variable (IV)

The presumed cause; what the researcher manipulates.

Dependent Variable (DV)

The presumed effect; what is measured or observed.

Moderating Variable (MV)

A variable that influences the strength or direction of the IV–DV relationship.

IV–DV Model

Shows how the Independent Variable affects the Dependent Variable.

IV–DV–MV Model

Adds a Moderating Variable to explore deeper relationships.

IPO Model

Input–Process–Output; common in education and business research.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction about the relationship between variables.

Alternative Hypothesis

Predicts a relationship or effect.

Null Hypothesis

Predicts no relationship or effect.

Quantitative

Systematic investigation using numerical data and statistics.

Categorical

Qualitative differences, not measurable in numbers (e.g., gender, color).

Independent Variable (IV) vs Dependent Variable (DV)

IV is the presumed cause; DV is the presumed effect.

Relationship Representation: 1 Arrow vs 2 Arrows

One arrow indicates significant difference; double arrow indicates significant relationship.

Variable Relationships (Examples)

Study Time → Exam Scores; Fertilizer Type → Plant Growth; Medication → Recovery Time; Exercise Frequency ↔ Body Weight.

A Good Research Title Should Be

Descriptive, Direct, Accurate, Appropriate, Interesting, Concise, Precise, Unique, Not Misleading.

Title Formula

Cause + Effect + Respondents + Location.

Example Title

Anxiety and Depression among Grade 12 Students in a Catholic School in Davao City.

Dissecting a Title (Steps)

Identify the cause, identify the effect, identify the respondents, and combine accordingly.

Statement of the Problem (SOP) Template

General Objective: determine levels of [IV] and [DV] among [respondents] in [location]; assess if there is a significant relationship between [IV] and [DV].

General Objective

A broad aim stated in SOP to guide the study.

Specific Objectives

Targeted questions: demographics, levels of anxiety/depression, group differences, and relationships.

Background of the Study

Context for the problem, including global, national, and local perspectives.

Global Setting

Present global data, trends, and relevance.

National Setting

Zoom in on country-specific issues and statistics.

Local Setting

Describe the community or group where the study takes place.

Relationship of Variables

Explain how IV and DV are connected (causal or correlational).

Research Gap

Identify what hasn’t been studied or addressed yet.

Social Value & Community Involvement

Show how the study benefits society and engages stakeholders.

Dissemination Plan

Describe how findings will be shared (journals, conferences, etc.).

Framework

The structural blueprint of a study guiding questions, questions, and methodology.

Theoretical Framework

Anchored in a single established theory; used when a well-known model underpins the study.

Conceptual Framework

Built from multiple concepts or theories; flexible and tailored to the study.

Camera Lens Analogy

Research Lens = camera angle/focus; Theoretical Framework = camera settings; Conceptual Framework = final photo showing relationships.

Common Research Lenses

Psychological, Sociological, Pedagogical, Cultural, Economic, Political.

Common Conceptual Framework Models

IV–DV Model; IV–DV–MV Model; IPO Model.

IV–DV Model (Model Type)

Shows how the Independent Variable affects the Dependent Variable.

IV–DV–MV Model (Model Type)

Adds a Moderating Variable to explore deeper relationships.

IPO Model (Model Type)

Input–Process–Output model, common in education and business research.

Maslow’s Theory

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs used to explore student needs in a theoretical framework.

Multiple Intelligences

Gardner’s theory that intelligence is diverse and domain-specific.

Psychosexual / Psychoanalytic

Freud’s theory of personality development and motivation.

Natural Selection

Darwin’s theory explaining how advantageous traits are favored by evolution.

Parenting Styles

Diana Baumrind’s typology of parenting approaches and their effects.

Social Learning

Bandura’s theory that learning occurs through observation and imitation.

Personality Theory

Theories explaining consistent patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behavior.

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)

Vygotsky’s idea of tasks just beyond current ability with help.

Moral Development

Kohlberg’s stages of moral reasoning.

Symbolic Interactionism

Mead’s theory on how people create meaning through social interaction.

Structural Functionalism

Theory viewing society as interrelated parts that maintain stability.

Peter Principle

Concept that people in an organization tend to be promoted to their level of incompetence.