Questions and Answers
What is a characteristic of research?
What is a primary focus of qualitative research?
Which of the following is a strength of quantitative research?
What is a weakness of quantitative research?
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What is a key characteristic of non-experimental research?
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How does quantitative research enhance data comprehension?
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Which design allows researchers to study relationships between variables without determining cause?
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What is a defining feature of quasi-experimental research?
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Which example best represents experimental research?
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What challenge is often associated with quantitative research?
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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Quasi-Experimental Research:
- Establishes cause and effect without randomization; example: studying the impact of part-time work on high school student achievement.
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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).
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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.
