Characteristics, Kinds, and Strengths of Quantitative Research

This set of flashcards covers the definition, characteristics, types, strengths, and weaknesses of quantitative research as presented in the lecture notes.

How is Quantitative Research defined in the lecture?

It is a systematic investigation that primarily relies on numerical data and statistical methods to derive insights and draw conclusions, focusing on quantifying relationships, behaviors, or phenomena.

What are the six key characteristics of Quantitative Research?

Numerical Data, Structured Tools, Large Sample Size, Objective Analysis, Statistical Analysis (involving descriptive and inferential statistics), and Replicability.

What quote is used to emphasize the importance of measurement in research?

"One accurate measurement is worth a thousand expert opinions."

What are the two major categories of Quantitative Research mentioned in the transcript?

Non-experimental and Experimental research.

What are the two types of Non-experimental research?

Descriptive and Correlational research.

What is the primary purpose of Descriptive research?

To describe the nature, characteristics, and components of a population or phenomenon, focusing on frequency and the presently existing situation without manipulation of variables.

What code words should a researcher look for in Correlational research articles?

Relationship, related to, associated with, and predicts.

What is the focus of Correlational research?

The orderly or systematic investigation of the nature of relationships or associations between and among variables without investigating causal reasons.

Which design is centrally concerned with high causal (internal) validity?

Experimental Research.

What three characteristics identify True Experimental Research?

$1$. Randomly formed groups, $2$. manipulation of the treatment (the IV), and $3$. comparisons among groups.

According to Prieto, et al., which design offers the highest internal validity?

True Experimental Research.

How does Quasi-Experimental research differ from True Experimental Research?

It lacks the random assignment of subjects to other conditions.

What are the strengths of Quantitative Research listed in the notes?

Objective results (minimizing bias), statistical validity, generalizability to larger populations, replicability, and efficient data collection.

What are the weaknesses of Quantitative Research?

Limited contextual understanding, rigid instruments that may not fit all settings, lack of depth or rich descriptive detail, and ethical concerns regarding human factors.

What degree of control over factors is associated with Descriptive research?

None or low.