Preliminaries to Quantitative Research

Quantitative Research

• Quantifies data

• Uses statistical methods to analyze & interpret patterns or relationships or trends

• Collection of numerical data to answer research questions or tests hypothesis in a n objective manner

Numerical Data

data is collected in the form of numbers (e.g., scores, counts, percentages, or measurements).

Objectivity

emphasis is placed on minimizing researcher bias by using standardized tools and methods

Structured Design

research is conducted following a predetermined plan or framework, such as surveys, experiments, or observational studies.

Large Samples

often involves larger sizes to ensure generalizability findings

Statistical Analysis

employs mathematical techniques to analyze and interpret data, such as averages, correlations, or tests of significance

Research Design

• also called as research strategy

• a plan to answer a set of questions

• to make the data address the research problem clearly

Types of Quantitative Research

• Descriptive Research

• Correlational Research

• Quasi-Experimental Research

• Comparative Research

Descriptive Research

• involves observing, recording, describing, and analyzing the characteristics of a phenomenon or a population without manipulating any variables.

• Describe the “What” or “How”

• the questions are designed to gather a specific data or facts that offer a comprehensive understanding of a topic

Correlational Research

• examines relationship between two or more variables to determine if there is a statistical association, but without establishing causality. It does not involve manipulation of variables

• focus relationships

Quasi-Experimental Research

• lacks random a assignment

• this design is used when randomization is not feasible or ethical but still attempts to determine causality

• effect and improve

Descriptive-Comparative Research

• involves comparing different groups or populations based on one or more variables to identify patterns, similarities, or differences

• the question focus on describing

• the questions compare two or more groups

Research Process Steps

1. Identify the problem

2. Evaluate literature

3. Create hypothesis

4. The research design

5. Describe population

6. Data collection

7. Data analysis

8. Report Writing

Key Characteristics and component of a quantitative research design

1. Clear research questions and hypothesis

2. Variable Identification (Hypothesis Testing)

3. Sampling

4. Data Collection Method

5. Data Analysis (Quantitative data & Statistical software)

6. Validity and Reliability

7. Generalizability

8. Numerical Presentations

9. Objectivity

Methods of Data Collection

• Surveys

• Experiments

• Observations

• Existing Data

Surveys

Questionnaires or interviews used to gather numerical data

Experiments

Controlled setups to test hypotheses

Observations

Quantifying behavior or phenomena as they occur naturally

Existing Data

Using secondary sources like census reports or databases