Measurement in Quantitative Research

Study Notes

Measurement

Measurement refers to the process of quantifying characteristics or attributes of an object or phenomenon, often using a set scale.

Conceptual Definition

A conceptual definition provides a theoretical meaning of a concept, outlining its key characteristics and how it fits within a broader context.

Operational Definition

An operational definition specifies the procedures or methods used to measure a concept, detailing the steps taken to translate abstract ideas into measurable factors.

Construct

A construct is an abstract concept or idea that is specifically formulated for research purposes, often encompassing behavior, traits, or characteristics that cannot be directly observed.

Concept

A concept is an idea or mental representation of a class of objects or events, serving as a building block for theories and understanding in a particular domain.

Precise Measurement Requirements

Precise measurement demands clear definitions of concepts, consistency in measurement techniques, validity, and reliability to ensure that data accurately reflects what is intended to be measured.

Abstract Level vs. Empirical Level

The abstract level refers to theoretical frameworks and conceptual models that define relationships and constructs; the empirical level involves measurable and observable data that can be collected and analyzed.

Sales Person Job Performance Levels

At the abstract level, salesperson job performance may be defined by concepts like customer satisfaction or sales skills; at the empirical level, it is quantifiable through metrics such as sales numbers or client feedback.

Latent Construct

A latent construct is a hidden or unobservable variable that is inferred from other variables, often used in psychological and social research to explain underlying patterns or behaviors.

Age and Reward Preference Relationship

Research typically indicates a correlation between age and reward preference, suggesting that different age groups may prioritize various incentives based on their life experiences and motivational drives.

Description

Test your knowledge on the nature of measurement in quantitative research with this quiz by Prof Dr Zahid Ali Chanar. Learn about the process of assigning numbers to attributes and the importance of reliable and valid measurement. Explore concepts like conceptual definition and precision in measurement.