Practical-Research-2-Lesson-1-4.docx

**Practical Research 2** **Unit I - Nature of Inquiry and Research** **Lesson 1 -- Definition of Quantitative Research** What is Research? Research is a systematic procedure employed to gather and evaluate data to enhance our comprehension of a subject or matter. Moreover, it consists of 3 steps...

**Practical Research 2** **Unit I - Nature of Inquiry and Research** **Lesson 1 -- Definition of Quantitative Research** What is Research? Research is a systematic procedure employed to gather and evaluate data to enhance our comprehension of a subject or matter. Moreover, it consists of 3 steps: 1. Pose a question, 2. Collecting data to answer the questions, and 3. Present findings to the question posted (Creswell, 2017). The process of research consists of six steps (Creswell, 2017): 1\. Identifying a research problem 2\. Reviewing the literature 3\. Specifying a purpose for research 4\. Collecting data 5\. Analyzing and interpreting the data 6\. Reporting and evaluating research Research refers to explaining phenomena by gathering quantitative data that are examined using mathematically grounded techniques, particularly statistics. It uses deductive reasoning to produce hypotheses that are tested in real-world scenarios. (Cristobal & Cristobal, 2022). **Lesson 2 - Characteristics of Quantitative Research** Quantitative research contains several essential attributes: 1. **Objectivity and Reliability.** Quantitative research strives to uphold objectivity by employing defined techniques and standardized measurements, ensuring reliability. The uniformity of the research instruments guarantees the data\'s trustworthiness. 2. **Quantifiable Data** Quantifiable data refers to information that can be measured and analyzed using statistical methods. Data is commonly collected through the use of instruments such as surveys, tests, or organized observations. 3. **Big Sample Size** Quantitative research sometimes requires bigger sample sizes in order to enhance the generalizability of the findings. Qualitative research, in contrast, typically emphasizes smaller and more focused samples. 4. **Uses structured research instruments.** Structured research instruments, such as questionnaires or data gathering software, are commonly used. These technologies are specifically developed to guarantee consistency in the process of collecting data. 5. **Uses Statistics to analyze data** Statistical analysis is commonly employed in quantitative research to detect patterns, connections, or trends. This might encompass the use of descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, or multivariate analysis. 6. **It tests hypotheses.** In quantitative research, researchers frequently engage in hypothesis testing, a process in which they develop hypotheses and subsequently employ statistical tests to see if there is sufficient evidence to substantiate or dismiss them. 7. **It can be replicated.** Replication, which refers to the capacity to reproduce a study and get comparable outcomes, is a fundamental aspect of quantitative research. This replication guarantees the dependability and accuracy of the results. 8. **Emphasize causality.** Quantitative research frequently aims to demonstrate causal connections between variables. Experimental designs are specifically employed to establish causal correlations. **Lesson 3 - Importance of Quantitative Research** Quantitative research is essential in several domains since it offers empirical data, allows for hypothesis testing, and aids in decision-making. Below are few instances showcasing its significance in several domains, accompanied by corresponding citations: **Healthcare**: Quantitative research is crucial in the healthcare field as it provides valuable insights into the frequency of diseases, assesses the efficacy of therapies, and enhances the quality of patient care. It aids in clinical trials, epidemiological studies, and health services research. **Education**: Quantitative research is employed in education to quantify student performance, assess the effectiveness of educational initiatives, and provide data for policy-making. Standardized assessments, questionnaires, and statistical evaluations are prevalent instruments in this domain. **Business and Economics.** Quantitative research plays a crucial role in business and economics by providing essential data for market analysis, financial forecasts, and decision-making. It aids in comprehending customer behavior, appraising market trends, and reviewing company plans. **Social Sciences.** Social sciences employ quantitative research methods to investigate social phenomena, comprehend human behavior, and provide insights for public policy. Surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis are often employed methodologies. **Lesson 4 -- Types of Quantitative Research** Quantitative research comprises several categories, each fulfilling distinct study objectives and employing diverse approaches. The following are the primary categories of quantitative research, accompanied by pertinent citations: **Descriptive Research** Descriptive research involves the systematic collection and analysis of data to provide a detailed and accurate description of a particular phenomenon or situation. This research methodology seeks to provide a comprehensive description of the attributes and qualities of a certain population or phenomena. Data collection in this context is gathering information that offers insights on the \"what\" part of a subject, without delving into the reasons behind it. Conventional techniques encompass surveys and observational research. **Correlational Research** Correlational research is a form of study that investigates the link between two or more variables without altering or influencing them. It recognizes patterns and connections, but it does not demonstrate causality. **Causal-Comparative/Ex-post Facto Research** Causal-comparative/ex post facto research aims to establish causal linkages by comparing groups that have been subjected to distinct treatments or situations. It has resemblance to experimental research, however, it lacks the element of random assignment. **Experimental Study** Experimental study is a scientific method that includes deliberately changing one variable to investigate its impact on another variable. The methodology involves the utilization of control groups, random assignment, and controlled conditions to establish a cause-and-effect relationship. **Quasi-Experimental Study** This sort of study, like experimental research, aims to demonstrate causation, but it does not include random assignment. Instead, it depends on preexisting groupings or situations. **Longitudinal Study** Longitudinal study refers to a sort of research where the same variables are observed repeatedly over a long period of time. Studying developmental patterns and long-term repercussions can be beneficial. **Cross-sectional research** Cross-sectional research is a method that entails examining a sample at a single, precise moment in time. A snapshot of a population or phenomena is obtained by this method, which is frequently employed to determine prevalence and relationships.