EBPI- Introduction to Quantitative Research

Hiearchy of Control in a Study

1. Experimental

2. Quasi-Experimental

3. Correlational

4. Descriptive

Descriptive Research

Exploration and description of phenomena in real-life situations.

The studies:

- Determine frequency with which a phenomenon occurs

- Categorizes the attributes of a phenomenon

- Determine quantity when a phenomenon can be characterized by an amount

Correlational Research

- Systematic investigation and strength of relationships between two or more variables.

- Explains the nature of relationships or allows prediction in a real-world context

- Associations/Correlations ≠ Cause and Effect

What is the objective of Quasi-Experimental Research?

To conduct an objective, systematic study of cause and effect relationships.

In Quasi-Experimental Research, what is the relationship between the Independent Variable and the Dependent Variable?

The Independent Variable affects the Dependent Variable.

Are samples in Quasi-Experimental Research randomly selected?

No, samples are NOT randomly selected.

Can all variables in a Quasi-Experimental Research study be controlled by the researcher?

No, not all variables can be controlled by the researcher.

What are the key characteristics of experimental research?

It is objective, systematic, and highly controlled.

What does experimental research investigate?

Cause-and-effect relationships.

What is manipulated in experimental research?

At least 1 independent variable.

What are the two groups involved in experimental research?

Experimental and Control groups.

How are participants assigned to groups in experimental research?

Through random assignment.

Basic Research

- Aims to increase the scientific knowledge base

- No specific applications toward processes or products

Applied Research

- Scientific study that aims to solve practical problems

- Attempts to solve real problems in clinical practice

What does rigor in research strive for?

Excellence in research and adherence to details

What are key components of a rigorous study design?

Uses precise measurement tools, a representative sample, and a tightly controlled study design

What is essential for rigor in research?

Logical reasoning

What qualities are required for rigor in research?

Precision, accuracy, detail, and order

What is Control?

In an experiment, the standard that is used for comparison; the unaffected/untreated group.

Research Design

The rules used to create control and decrease possiblity of error

Extraneous Variables

Any variables other than the independent variable that seem likely to influence the dependent variable in a specific study.

What Types of Settings Are Used in Quantitative Research?

In order of less to more control:

Natural/Field settings -> Partially Controlled -> Highly Controlled or Lab settings

What is Sampling

A process of selecting subjects who are representative of the population being studied. This process may be random or non-random.

Random Sampling

A sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion

Convenience Sampling

Using a sample of people who are readily available to participate and easiest to reach.

Problem-Solving Process

- Systematic collection of data

- Determination of goals

- Identification of approaches/solution

- Implementation of solution

- Evaluation

Quantitative Research Process

Conceptualizing a research project -> Planning and implementing that project -> Communicating the findings

Steps of the Quantitative Research Process

Can go forward and backwards at any step:

-Research problem and purpose

-Literature review

-Study framework

-Objectives, questions, or hypotheses

-Study Variables

-Study Design

-Population and sample

-Methods of measurement

-Data collection and analysis

-Communication of Research Outcomes

Research Problem

- Area of concern in which there is a gap of knowledge needed

- Typically broad

Research Purpose

- Identifies the specific goal or focus of the study

Review of the Relevant Literature

- Collecting pertinent literature to give in-depth knowledge about the problem

- Understanding what knowledge exists to make changes in practice

Study Framework

The abstract, theoretical basis for a study that enables the researcher to link the findings to nursing's body of knowledge

Theory

An integrated set of principles that explain, predict, or control phenomena.

Variables in a Study

Include concrete and abstract variables; they are measured, manipulated, or controlled.

Concrete Variables

Quantifiable like temperature or weight

Abstract Variables

Concepts like creativity and empathy

Conceptual Definition

Gives meaning to a concept and tells you what it is

Operational Definition

The variable can be measured using this description

Methods of Measurement

- Assigning numbers to objects

- Application of rules to development of a measurement device or instrument

- Data are gathered at the nominal, ordinal, interval, or ratio level of measurement

- Must examine reliability and validity of measurement tool

Data Collection

- Precise, systematic gathering of information for the study

- Consent must be obtained from the sample

- Researchers use observation, interviews, questionnaires, or scales to gather information

- Described under the "procedures" section of a research article

Data Anaylsis

- Reduce, organize, give meaning to data

- Descriptive and inferential analysis of data

Research Outcomes

- Interprets data findings in a meaningful manner

- Involves forming conclusions and considering implications for Nursing

- Suggests future studies

- Generalizes the findings

What is the Abstract in a research report?

Summary of study in 100-250 words

What does the Introduction section of a research report typically include?

Problem, purpose, literature, framework, and hypothesis

What are the key components of the Methods section in a research report?

Design, sample, setting, tool

What is the focus of the Results section in a research report?

Data analysis procedures

What does the Discussion section of a research report cover?

Findings, conclusions, and implications

What is included in the Reference list of a research report?

All sources cited

Tip: Two steps to Reading Research Papers

Read the abstract first then read the discussion

Best Way to Skim a Research Report

- Quickly review source for broad overview

- Read title, author's name, abstract, introduction, and discussion

- Examine conclusions and implications

- Give preliminary judgement of study

Vital Aspects of Comprehending and Critiquing a Study

- What is the type of study?

- What is the current knowledge available?

- Expertise of researcher?

- Funding resources including amount of funding and sources of funding