Characteristics of Quantitative Research
Quantitative research is the systematic empirical investigation of observable
phenomena using statistical, mathematical or computational techniques.
Objective
The research aims for objectivity and is separated from the data Quantitative
research seeks accurate measurement and analysis of target concepts. Prior to
proposing a conclusion or solution to a problem, data are gathered beforehand. It is
not based on mere guesses and intuitions.
Structured Research instruments.
Researcher uses tools, such as questionnaires or computer software, to
collect numerical data. The overarching aim of a quantitative research study is to
classify features, count them, and construct statistical models in an attempt to explain
what is observed.
Larger Sample Sizes
The results are based on larger sample sizes that are representative of the
population in order to come up with a more reliable data analysis. A large sample
size is required, depending on how the characteristics and the variations of the
population. To avoid the researcher's bias in interpreting the results, Random
Sampling is recommended in determining the sample size.
Replicated or Repeated
Given its high reliability, quantitative research study can usually be replicated
or repeated to confirm or to verify the correctness of the results in a different or
another setting. In this manner, the validity of the findings is being strengthened in
order to eliminate the possibility of spurious conclusions.
Clearly Defined Research Questions
Prior to the gathering of data, all aspects of the study are carefully designed
by the researcher. In quantitative research, the researchers know in advance what
they are looking for. Questionnaires are well defined for which objective answers are
sought.
Numerical Data
Data are in the form of numbers and statistics, often organized and presented
using tables, charts, graphs, figures, or other non-textual forms that consolidate large
numbers of data to show trends, relationships, or differences among variables.
Future Outcomes
Research paper can be used to generalize concepts more widely, predict
future results, or investigate causal relationships. Future scenarios of the study
maybe formulated by using complex mathematical calculations and with the aid of
computers, thus, predicting future outcomes.
4 Kinds of Quantitative Research
There are four (4) main kinds of quantitative designs -
descriptive, correlational, quasi-experimental. and experimental.
Descriptive Research is a study designed to depict the participants in an accurate
way. More simply, descriptive research is all about describing people who take part in
the study.
There are three ways a researcher can go about doing a descriptive research
project, and they are:
● Observational defined as a method of viewing and recording the
participants
● Case Study defined as an in-depth study of an individual or group of
individuals
● Survey - defined as a brief interview or discussion with an individual about a
specific topic
Correlational Research is a quantitative method of research in which you have 2 or
more quantitative variables from the same group of subjects.
Quasi-experimental Research involves selecting groups, upon which a variable is
tested, without any random pre-selection processes.
Experimental Research is commonly used in sciences such as sociology and
psychology, physics, chemistry, biology and medicine etc.
Characteristics of Good Research Questions
Ethical. Always consider the welfare of people, animals or whosoever are involved in
your study
Significant. Ask if your research questions are relevant or important to ask. Will
answering these questions provide an additional contribution to address the given research
problem?
Clear. The clarity of how the questions are stated lead to agreement of meaning of the
readers of your study.
Feasible. Consider the amount of time, energy, money, respondents, and even your
current situation as a student-researcher
The scope specifies the coverage of your study such as variables, population or
participant, and timeline. Delimitation cites factors of your study that are not included or
excluded or those you will not deal with in your study.
Choose an interesting topic.
Research is a very challenging task that demands your time and persistence. Your
motivation to find the answer to the problem should keep you going, thus building a momentum
along the way.
Select a significant topic.
A topic that is worth researching must be able to answer or solve problems in the
community. No one will take an interest in your topic if it is obsolete and does not address any
real problem.
Choose a topic relevant to your field.
One of the goals of this course is for you to be able to produce a quantitative research
study that is aligned to your chosen track.
Do preliminary research. The second step is much more time-consuming. Once you
have chosen a broad topic, you need to have a better understanding of it by reading some
more articles, journals, and related research studies.
Define the problem. After getting enough information, you may be able to list some
questions or problems that you want to research. At this stage, you should be able to
narrow down broad topics into feasible and manageable research questions.
Refine the question. This step lets you evaluate the questions formulated. What specific
questions should you ask?