Research Characteristics and Types

Study Notes

Characteristics of Research

Research is a systematic process involving collection, analysis, and interpretation of information to enhance understanding of a phenomenon.
It is not merely gathering information or transporting facts without interpretation.
Research involves methodological steps to ensure accurate results and may require iterative movements between steps in the research process.
Findings from research often lead to new questions, highlighting that research begets more research.

Types of Research

Qualitative Research:
- Focuses on non-numerical data to explore phenomena.
- Generates hypotheses rather than testing them.
- Samples are often from small, individualized groups, utilizing non-random or purposive sampling methods.
Quantitative Research:
- Collects numerical data for statistical analysis.
- Designed to test hypotheses, examine relationships, and differences among variables.
- Requires larger sample sizes to ensure valid and generalizable results.

Characteristics of Quantitative Research

Objective data gathering that minimizes researcher bias.
Large sample sizes lead to more meaningful statistical outcomes.
Reliable and generalizable data, provided proper sampling techniques are used.
Fast data collection using standardized instruments accelerates the research process.
Statistical tools significantly expedite data analysis.
Data visualization through graphs and charts enhances comprehension of results.
Facilitates replication of studies to validate findings.

Strengths of Quantitative Research

Produces generalizable results applicable to larger populations.
Quick and efficient data analysis with advanced statistical software.
High validity and reliability in survey instruments.
Ability to quantitatively predict outcomes based on numerical data.

Weaknesses of Quantitative Research

Lacks depth in exploring concepts or problems fully.
Does not capture the richness of human experiences or emotions.
Expensive data collection due to the requirement for larger sample sizes.

Kinds of Quantitative Research Designs

Non-Experimental Research:
- Descriptive: Observes phenomena as they naturally occur with no manipulation; example: tracking social media usage hours.
- Correlational: Identifies relationships between variables without determining cause; example: correlation between parental involvement and academic achievement.
- Ex Post Facto (Causal-Comparative): Investigates causal relationships based on past events without manipulation; example: comparing attitudes of academic and technical-vocational students.
Quasi-Experimental Research:
- Establishes cause and effect without randomization; example: studying the impact of part-time work on high school student achievement.
Experimental Research:
- Involves manipulation of independent variables to observe effects; example: comparing cooperative learning strategies against traditional lecture methods.

Characteristics of Research

Systematic process for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information to enhance understanding.
Involves methodological steps for accuracy; may require iterative movements between steps.
Research findings often generate new questions, demonstrating that it is an ongoing process.

Types of Research

Qualitative Research:
- Explores phenomena using non-numerical data.
- Generates hypotheses instead of testing them.
- Involves small, purposive samples obtained through non-random methods.
Quantitative Research:
- Collects numerical data suited for statistical analysis.
- Aims to test hypotheses and examine variable relationships.
- Requires larger sample sizes for valid, generalizable results.

Characteristics of Quantitative Research

Data gathering is objective, reducing researcher bias.
Larger sample sizes yield more meaningful statistical results.
Results are reliable and generalizable with proper sampling techniques.
Quick data collection facilitated by standardized instruments.
Statistical tools streamline data analysis, enhancing efficiency.
Data is often visualized through graphs and charts for better comprehension.
Studies can be replicated for validation of findings.

Strengths of Quantitative Research

Produces results that can be generalized to broader populations.
Fast data analysis through advanced statistical software.
High validity and reliability with well-designed survey instruments.
Enables quantitative predictions of outcomes based on numerical data.

Weaknesses of Quantitative Research

Lacks depth in exploring concepts or fully understanding problems.
Fails to capture the richness of human experiences and emotions.
Collection of data can be costly due to larger sample size requirements.

Kinds of Quantitative Research Designs

Non-Experimental Research:
- Descriptive: Observes phenomena naturally, without manipulation (e.g., tracking social media usage).
- Correlational: Examines relationships between variables without inferring causation (e.g., parental involvement and academic achievement).
- Ex Post Facto (Causal-Comparative): Investigates causal relationships based on past events without manipulation (e.g., comparing attitudes of academic vs. technical-vocational students).
Quasi-Experimental Research:
- Determines cause and effect without randomization (e.g., impact of part-time work on student achievement).
Experimental Research:
- Involves manipulation of independent variables to observe effects (e.g., comparing cooperative learning strategies to traditional lectures).

Description

This quiz covers the essential characteristics of research and the two primary types: qualitative and quantitative. It explores the systematic process of research, including the importance of methodology and data collection. Test your understanding of how different research approaches generate knowledge.