Research Methods: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of quantitative research?

  • To collect and analyze numerical data (correct)
  • To gain a deep understanding of individuals' experiences
  • To identify causal relationships between variables
  • To explore the underlying meanings of a phenomenon

    • Which type of research is characterized by the researcher being the primary data-gathering instrument?

  • Experimental research
  • Quantitative research
  • Qualitative research (correct)
  • Mixed-methods research

    • What is a key advantage of quantitative research?

  • It provides rich, contextual detail
  • It allows for generalizability of findings
  • It is useful for exploring underlying meanings
  • It is time-efficient and able to test hypotheses (correct)

    • What is a key characteristic of qualitative research design?

    <p>It emerges as the study unfolds</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of data is typically analyzed in quantitative research?

    <p>Numerical data</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of qualitative research?

    <p>To explore the underlying meanings of a phenomenon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of nursing research?

    <p>To create or discover knowledge that will enhance nursing practice, education and administration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the fundamental characteristic of quantitative research?

    <p>Emphasis on collecting numerical data and drawing inferences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of research design is focused on exploring the relationships between variables?

    <p>Correlational design</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of a feasibility study in research?

    <p>To determine the practicality of a larger study</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary distinction between quantitative and qualitative research methodologies?

    <p>The philosophical perspective underlying the research</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of an intelligent reader of research findings?

    <p>To recognize the design used in a study and evaluate its suitability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of sampling is used in qualitative research, where participants are chosen based on their knowledge of the phenomenon being studied?

    <p>Purposive sampling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary responsibility of a researcher in a qualitative study?

    <p>To look and listen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main characteristic of qualitative research that distinguishes it from quantitative research?

    <p>Collection of subjective narrative material</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was qualitative research previously referred to as?

    <p>Soft science</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the focus of qualitative research?

    <p>Words, feelings, emotions, and other non-numerical elements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of research is based on the analysis of numerical data?

    <p>Quantitative research</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the entire set of individuals or elements that meet the specified criteria in a research study?

    <p>Population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for sampling in research?

    <p>To ensure that the sample is representative of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the population in research to which the researchers can apply their conclusions?

    <p>Accessible population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for a research design that involves gathering both numeric and text information?

    <p>Mixed method design</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the process of selecting a subset of the population for a research study?

    <p>Sampling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the site and setting for the research study?

    <p>Research setting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the population that can be accessed for the study?

    <p>Study population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of specifying a sampling method in the research design?

    <p>To ensure the sample is representative of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key characteristic of probability sampling methods?

    <p>Every element of the population has a probability higher than zero of being selected</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main reason for using sampling in research?

    <p>To make predictions about behavioral outcomes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first step in the sampling process?

    <p>Define the study population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using probability sampling methods?

    <p>They increase the representativeness of the sample</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the technical name for the actual list of elements from which the sample will be chosen?

    <p>Sampling frame</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for selecting a sample instead of studying the entire population?

    <p>Because it's seldom possible to study an entire population unless it is particularly small</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for mutually exclusive segments of the population based on one or more characteristics?

    <p>Strata</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the process of selecting a portion of the population to represent the entire population?

    <p>Sampling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the probability of getting an un-representative sample by chance?

    <p>Sampling error</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the standard distance between the elements chosen for the sample?

    <p>Sample interval</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main characteristic of simple random sampling?

    <p>Each element in the population has an equal chance of being selected</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of stratified random sampling?

    <p>To ensure representativeness in the sample</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of sampling involves selecting large groups or clusters?

    <p>Cluster sampling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the advantage of using stratified random sampling?

    <p>It ensures representativeness in the sample</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the list of elements from which the sample will be chosen?

    <p>Sample frame</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using probability sampling methods?

    <p>It ensures representativeness in the sample</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between one-stage and two-stage cluster sampling methods?

    <p>One-stage sampling involves selecting all elements within selected clusters, while two-stage sampling involves selecting a subset of elements within selected clusters.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main advantage of using stratified sampling over cluster sampling?

    <p>Stratified sampling reduces sampling error.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key characteristic of systematic sampling that makes it an 'equal probability of selection' (EPS) design?

    <p>Every element in the population has the same probability of selection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of using cluster sampling in research?

    <p>To reduce costs of gathering data.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference between stratified sampling and cluster sampling?

    <p>Stratified sampling is used to reduce sampling error, while cluster sampling is used to reduce costs of gathering data.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key distinction between simple random sampling and systematic sampling?

    <p>Simple random sampling involves selecting a random sample, while systematic sampling involves selecting every 'Nth' case.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using cluster sampling over other probability sampling methods?

    <p>It is more efficient in collecting data from a specific geographic area</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference between simple random sampling and stratified random sampling?

    <p>Stratified random sampling divides the population into subgroups, while simple random sampling does not</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of systematic random sampling?

    <p>The sample is selected at fixed intervals from the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main advantage of using probability sampling methods?

    <p>They increase the representativeness of the sample</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between probability and non-probability sampling methods?

    <p>In probability sampling, every element has a known probability of being selected, while in non-probability sampling, the selection is based on convenience or expertise</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of specifying a sampling method in a research study?

    <p>To ensure the representativeness of the sample</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of dividing the population into strata in stratified random sampling?

    <p>To group elements with similar characteristics to achieve representativeness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between cluster sampling and stratified random sampling?

    <p>Cluster sampling involves dividing the population into smaller groups, while stratified sampling involves dividing the population into subgroups based on characteristics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using systematic sampling over simple random sampling?

    <p>Systematic sampling provides a more accurate representation of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary disadvantage of using probability sampling methods?

    <p>It is time-consuming and expensive</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of random assignment in research?

    <p>To assign participants to different treatment groups</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of a sample frame in simple random sampling?

    <p>It is a list of elements that are representative of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of specifying the study population in the sampling process?

    <p>To define the sampling frame</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key difference between stratified sampling and cluster sampling?

    <p>Stratified sampling involves dividing the population into smaller groups, while cluster sampling involves selecting large groups or clusters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of systematic sampling?

    <p>The sample is selected based on a specific pattern or sequence</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of random assignment in research?

    <p>To reduce bias in the sample</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary disadvantage of probability sampling methods?

    <p>They may not be representative of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of specifying a sampling plan in the research design?

    <p>It makes the research more efficient and practical</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using quota sampling over convenience sampling?

    <p>It reduces bias and increases representativeness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary disadvantage of using probability sampling methods?

    <p>They can be expensive and time-consuming</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between stratified sampling and cluster sampling?

    <p>Stratified sampling involves dividing the population into subgroups, while cluster sampling involves selecting large groups or clusters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of using systematic sampling?

    <p>To ensure that the sample is representative of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using random assignment in research?

    <p>It reduces bias in the selection of groups</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of probability sampling methods?

    <p>They allow for the estimation of sampling errors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using probability sampling methods?

    <p>Allows for estimation of sampling errors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of non-probability sampling method involves selecting subjects who are readily available?

    <p>Convenience sampling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of using snowball sampling?

    <p>To select subjects with specific characteristics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using non-probability sampling methods?

    <p>Reduces the cost and time required for sampling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key advantage of probability sampling methods in terms of prediction?

    <p>Making predictions about behavioral outcomes with known accuracy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of sampling in research?

    <p>To select a subset of the population that is representative of the entire population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of quota sampling over convenience sampling?

    <p>Works better to reduce bias</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of non-probability sampling methods?

    <p>Efficiency and practicality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of snowball sampling?

    <p>Recruiting participants through referrals from existing participants</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of sampling in research?

    <p>To make predictions about behavioral outcomes with known accuracy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of non-probability sampling methods over probability sampling methods?

    <p>Greater flexibility in sample selection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary disadvantage of probability sampling methods?

    <p>Increased workload for the researcher</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using non-probability sampling methods over probability sampling methods?

    <p>They are often more convenient and economical</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of snowball sampling?

    <p>To recruit participants with unique access or knowledge about the group being studied</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using probability sampling methods?

    <p>They provide a more accurate representation of the target population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of sampling in research?

    <p>To estimate a characteristic of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary disadvantage of using non-probability sampling methods?

    <p>They provide a less accurate representation of the target population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using snowball sampling over other non-probability sampling methods?

    <p>It creates a 'snowball effect' that enlarges the sample size over time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of specifying a sample size in the research design?

    <p>To determine the resources needed for the study</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the process of dividing a population into mutually exclusive groups based on one or more characteristics?

    <p>Stratification</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary source of bias in sampling?

    <p>The sampling method</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between a study population and a theoretical population?

    <p>The study population is a subset of the theoretical population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using probability sampling methods?

    <p>They provide a more accurate representation of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of sampling in research?

    <p>To make predictions about the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using cluster sampling in research?

    <p>To reduce the cost of gathering data</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between stratified and cluster sampling?

    <p>Stratified sampling involves selecting subgroups with similar characteristics, while cluster sampling involves selecting clusters of elements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of stratifying the population in stratified random sampling?

    <p>To ensure that the sample is representative of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using systematic sampling over simple random sampling?

    <p>Systematic sampling has an equal probability of selection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary disadvantage of using cluster sampling?

    <p>It can lead to sampling bias</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of using a sample frame in sampling?

    <p>To create a list of elements from which to select the sample</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of using a sample frame in simple random sampling?

    <p>To reduce sampling bias by ensuring each element has an equal chance of being selected</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of sampling is used when the researcher knows some of the variables in the population that are critical to achieving representativeness?

    <p>Stratified random sampling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using stratified random sampling over simple random sampling?

    <p>It allows for a more accurate representation of the population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of dividing the population into strata in stratified random sampling?

    <p>To group elements that belong to a specific category</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of cluster sampling?

    <p>It requires successive random sampling units</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary consequence of not dividing the population into strata in stratified random sampling?

    <p>It can lead to a biased sample</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research

    • Quantitative Research involves structured data collection methods, such as surveys, observation schedules, and record analysis.
    • Qualitative Research uses flexible methods like individual interviews, focus groups, and unstructured observations.
    • Data Collection Tools: Quantitative research employs tools for numerical data while qualitative research relies on the researcher as the data-gathering instrument.
    • Nature of Data: Quantitative data is objective and precise, while qualitative data is subjective and interprets individual experiences.
    • Efficiency: Quantitative data can efficiently test hypotheses but may lose contextual details. Qualitative data is richer yet time-consuming and less generalizable.
    • Study Design: Quantitative studies are pre-designed, whereas qualitative studies evolve as research unfolds.

    Research Methodology

    • Research methodology systematically addresses research problems, involving both quantitative and qualitative approaches.
    • Types of Research: Includes exploratory, descriptive, correlational, comparative, case studies, feasibility studies, intervention, experimental, and quasi-experimental designs.
    • An intelligent reader can identify and evaluate research designs according to their appropriateness for the study's purpose.

    Quantitative Research Method

    • Focuses on numeric data collection, summarizing, and drawing inferences.
    • Investigators explain causes and predict outcomes through deductive reasoning while controlling variables.
    • Analyzes numerical data, enabling hypothesis testing and statistical evaluation.

    Qualitative Research Method

    • Involves collecting and analyzing narrative materials with less stringent controls.
    • Requires fewer subjects selected based on knowledge of the studied phenomenon.
    • Emphasizes subjective elements such as feelings and emotions over quantifiable data.
    • Researcher’s ability to gather trustworthy data is crucial, fostering a student-teacher dynamic between researcher and subjects.
    • Qualitative research has gained importance in healthcare for its insights into patient care and nursing practices.

    Mixed Methods

    • Combines numeric (quantitative) and text-based (qualitative) data collection.
    • Employs strategies to gather data sequentially or simultaneously.

    Research Settings

    • Natural Setting: Uncontrolled research in real-life environments.
    • Partially Controlled Setting: Some manipulation by researchers seen in correlational or quasi-experimental studies.
    • Highly Controlled Setting: Artificial environments, such as labs, utilized in experimental studies.

    Sampling

    • Population: Total group meeting specific criteria (e.g., all mentally ill clients with schizophrenia).
    • Target Population: Entire individuals who meet sampling criteria.
    • Accessible Population: Subset available for researchers to draw conclusions.
    • Sampling Process: Defining populations, specifying frames and methods, and determining sample sizes are critical steps to avoid bias.

    Sampling Breakdown

    • Theoretical population: who researchers wish to generalize findings to.
    • Study population: the population accessible to researchers.
    • Sample frame: the list of potential subjects.
    • Sample: the actual individuals studied.

    Sampling Methods

    • Probability Sampling: Each population member has a non-zero probability of being selected, increasing representativeness. Methods include simple random, stratified random, systematic random, and cluster random sampling.
    • Non-Probability Sampling: Selection of subjects through non-random methods may reduce representativeness. Subtypes are convenience, snowball, quota, and purposive sampling.

    Simple Random Sampling

    • Basic form of probability sampling, where each sample element has an equal chance of selection.
    • Larger frames require tools or software for random selection.

    Stratified Random Sampling

    • Divides the population into strata (e.g., by age, gender) and selects random samples from each stratum to ensure representativeness.

    Cluster Sampling

    • Involves random sampling of large groupings, with either all units in selected clusters being studied (one-stage) or a subset being selected (two-stage).

    Systematic Sampling

    • Involves selecting every Nth individual from a list, ensuring equal probability of selection.

    Effective Sampling Considerations

    • Advantages of Probability Sampling: Reliable results, reduced biases, and estimation of sampling errors.
    • Disadvantages: May be expensive and inconvenient.
    • Non-probability sampling offers efficiency but may lead to bias and less representation.### Snowball Sampling
    • Also known as network sampling, it involves utilizing study subjects to recruit additional participants.
    • A recruitment technique where initial participants help identify others who fit the study criteria.
    • The process typically starts with one participant and expands through their referrals, creating a chain effect.

    Advantages and Disadvantages of Non-Probability Sampling

    • Advantages:
      • Convenient and economical method for specific studies.
      • Useful when targeting experts or specific characteristics (e.g., purposive sampling).
    • Disadvantages:
      • Rarely represents the target population accurately.
      • Increases the likelihood of sampling errors.

    Factors Influencing Sample Size

    • Cost or budget constraints.
    • Desired accuracy.
    • Variance in the population for the variable of interest.
    • Planned subgroup analysis.

    Steps in the Sampling Process

    • Define the study population and specify the sampling frame.
    • Choose the sampling method and determine the sample size.
    • Decide on a sampling plan and actual sample selection based on desired characteristics.

    Sampling Definitions

    • Theoretical Population: Who researchers want to generalize their findings to.
    • Study Population: The population accessible for the study.
    • Sample Frame: How access to the study population is obtained.
    • Sample: The actual subjects being studied.

    Reasons for Sampling

    • Allows predictions about behavioral outcomes.
    • More economical and efficient approach to data collection.
    • Provides results with calculated accuracy.

    Types of Sampling Methods

    • Probability Sampling:
      • Ensures all members have a chance of being selected, enhancing representativeness.
      • Random selection is the hallmark.
      • Examples: Simple Random, Stratified Random, Systematic, Cluster, Random Assignment.
    • Non-Probability Sampling:
      • Techniques like Convenience, Snowball, Quota, and Purposive sampling are employed.

    Cluster Sampling

    • Involves selecting large groups (clusters) for sampling.
    • Two types:
      • One-stage: All elements in selected clusters are sampled.
      • Two-stage: A subset of elements from selected clusters is sampled.

    Stratified vs. Cluster Sampling

    • Stratified Sampling: Ensures representation from subgroups to reduce sampling error.
    • Cluster Sampling: Focuses on reducing data collection costs, forming heterogeneous groups.

    Systematic Sampling

    • Involves selecting every "Nth" case from a list, ensuring equal probability of selection for all elements.
    • Different subsets may have varying probabilities, which distinguishes it from simple random sampling.

    Simple Random Sampling

    • The foundational method of probability sampling, relying on a sample frame for participant selection.
    • For small frames, names can be drawn physically; larger frames utilize tables or software.

    Stratified Random Sampling

    • Population is divided into strata before random sampling occurs.
    • Used to ensure that specific variables critical for representativeness are accounted for.
    • Common stratification variables include age, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, diagnosis, geographic region, and type of care.

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