Quantitative Research: Characteristics & Advantages/Disadvantages PDF
Document Details
Sir Bryle P. Alim & Sir Kristopher Alan Tayag
Tags
Summary
This document details the characteristics and advantages/disadvantages of quantitative research. It also explores various designs of quantitative research.
Full Transcript
ELLE. R. - 12 – YOGORE Discussed by Sir Bryle P. Alim & Sir Kristopher Alan Tayag Characteristics of Quantitative Research High Replicability The Quantitat...
ELLE. R. - 12 – YOGORE Discussed by Sir Bryle P. Alim & Sir Kristopher Alan Tayag Characteristics of Quantitative Research High Replicability The Quantitative method can be repeated to Large Sample Size verify findings enhancing its validity, free from false or immature conclusions. To obtain more meaningful statistical result, the data must come from a large sample size. Advantages of Quantitative Objectivity Research Data gathering and analysis of results are done accurately, objectively, and are unaffected by the 1. Very objective researcher’s intuition and personal guesses. 2. Numerical and quantifiable - data can be used Concise Visual Presentation to predict outcomes. Data is numerical which makes presentation 3. Findings are generalizable to the population through graphs, charts, and tables possible and with better conveyance and interpretation. 4. There is a conclusive establishment of cause and effect Faster Data Analysis 5. Fast and easy data analysis using statistical The use of statistical tools gives way for a less software time-consuming data analysis. 6. Quantitative research can be replicated or repeated Generalized Data 7. Validity and reliability can be established Data taken from a sample can be applied to the population if sampling is done accordingly, i.e., sufficient size and random samples were taken. Disadvantages of Fast and Easy Data Collection Quantitative Research Depending on the type of data needed, collection its weaknesses: can be quick and easy. 1. It lacks the necessary data to explore a problem Quantitative research uses standardized research or concept in depth instruments that allow the researcher to collect data from a large sample size efficiently. 2. It does not provide comprehensive explanation of human experiences For instance, a single survey form can be administered simultaneously to collect various 3. Some information cannot be described by measurable characteristics like age, gender, numerical data such as feelings, and beliefs socio-economic status, etc. 4. The research design is rigid and not very flexible Reliable Data 5. The participants are limited to choose only from Data is taken and analyzed objectively from a the given responses sample as a representative of the population, making it more credible and reliable for 6. The respondents may tend to provide inaccurate policymaking and decision-making. responses ELLE. R. - 12 – YOGORE Discussed by Sir Bryle P. Alim & Sir Kristopher Alan Tayag 7. A large sample size makes data collection more Identifies relationships between variables costly collected by OBSERVATION Kinds of Quantitative does not consider the cause and effect Research This research design is based on pairs of measures or scores of a single sample. Descriptive Design It indicates the strengths of the relationship is used to describe a particular phenomenon by between two variables that embody the observing it as it occurs in nature. characteristics or performances of a group. There is no experimental manipulation, and the Example: Studying the correlation between researcher does not start with a hypothesis. study hours and exam scores The goal of descriptive research is only to Ex Post Facto Design describe the person or object of the study. Used to investigate a possible relationship An example of descriptive research design is between previous events and present conditions. “the determination of the different kinds of physical activities and how often high school After the fact, looks at the possible causes of an students do it during the quarantine period.” already occurring phenomenon. Anastas (1999) explained that “this research There is no experimental manipulation in this answers the questions 4W and H (What, Where, When, Who, and How) except why. design Example: Studying the impact of parental These questions are which are linked to the research questions” (Melegrito and Mendoza education on children's academic performance 2016, 23). Quasi-Experimental Design It does not answer “why” because it does not seek to explain why certain things happen. Establishes cause-and-effect relationships without full experimental control It is only applied to describe what exists and gather information on the current status of a lesser validity due to the absence of random particular. selection and assignment of subjects. Survey Research Here, the independent variable is identified but not manipulated. this research design is intended to acquire information from people. The researcher does not modify pre-existing groups of subjects. aims to gather data concerning the predominance, distribution, and interrelations of The group exposed to treatment (experimental) the variables within an identified group. is compared to the group unexposed to treatment (control) It aims to gather evidence of people’s knowledge, opinions, attitudes, and values on Example: Analyzing the effects of a new various issues and concerns. teaching method on student performance Correlational Design Experimental Design ELLE. R. - 12 – YOGORE Discussed by Sir Bryle P. Alim & Sir Kristopher Alan Tayag Used to establish the cause-and-effect relationship of two or more variables. This design provides a more conclusive result Quantitative Research and because it uses random assignment of subjects and experimental manipulations. Anthropology The researcher is authorized to control the Anthropology situation and manipulates the Independent Variable (IV) to detect its influence on the the scientific study of humans, their behavior Dependent Variable (DV). and societies in the past. you must be cautious with experimental design Contribution to Anthropology because it is artificial and may not be generalized well to the real world. Quantitative research enhances understanding of human behavior It is because of its artificial settings that may alter the behavior of the participants. simultaneously exploring of connections of human kinds amidst their cultural differences, Research Variables alternatives, and identity. Example: Using statistical analysis to study Definition and Examples migration patterns a changing quality, attribute or characteristic of a Anthropologists person, a group, an educational system, or any topic that is of interest in a study. study the concept of culture and its relationship to human life in different times and places. Examples include intelligence, social competence, bullying, stress management, They deal with other societies to gain clearer commitment, performance, achievement, study perspectives to trace back the past to help habits, absenteeism, etc. interpret the present and the future. Example: Investigating the relationship between stress levels and academic performance Quantitative Research and Parametric vs. Nonparametric Methods Communication Parametric methods like t-tests and ANOVA Communication require specific data characteristics using mean and standard deviation (two observations are is the act of conveying meanings from one entity required) or group to another through the use of mutually understood signs, symbols, and semiotic rules. Nonparametric methods are used when two observations are not met by the comparison of The primary purpose of communication research mean ranks is to help people understand communication phenomena and direct their communication Example: Using ANOVA for comparing means toward accomplishing individual and in different groups organizational goals. ELLE. R. - 12 – YOGORE Discussed by Sir Bryle P. Alim & Sir Kristopher Alan Tayag It tells them about the world beyond their Quantitative Research and immediate experience, and can help explain how Medicine their own society works. It provides vital information for governments Medicine and policymakers, local authorities and non- governmental organizations. science and practice of establishing the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and prevention is the activity of gathering, analyzing and of disease. interpreting information for a variety of social, economic, educational and political purposes. It encompasses a variety of health care practices to maintain and restore health by the prevention It is the scientific study of human society and and treatment of illness. social relationships. Medical research aims to advance our Include cultural or social anthropology, knowledge to prevent and cure health problems. sociology, social psychology, political science, It can provide important information about history, linguistics, archeology, and economics. disease trends and risk factors, outcomes of treatment or public health interventions. Research Title Quantitative Research and along with the abstract, these two are the most Psychology important parts of a research paper and should be pleasant to read. Psychology It should be descriptive, direct, accurate, appropriate, interesting, concise, precise, and is the scientific study of the human mind and unique, and should not be misleading. behavior. It is a multifaceted discipline that includes many Background of the Study sub-fields of study such as human development, social behavior, and cognitive process. The background of your study will provide context to the information discussed throughout Quantitative psychologists study and develop the the research paper. methods and techniques used to measure human behavior and other attributes. Background information may include both important and relevant studies. Their work involves the statistical and mathematical modeling of psychological This is particularly important if a study either processes and analysis of psychological data. supports or refutes your thesis. Quantitative Research and How should one write the background of a research paper? Social Science - The length and detail presented in the background Social Science varies for different research papers, depending on the complexity and novelty of the research topic. At times, a is the study of society and the manner in which simple background suffices, even if the study is people behave and influence the world around complex. them. ELLE. R. - 12 – YOGORE Discussed by Sir Bryle P. Alim & Sir Kristopher Alan Tayag - Before writing and adding details in the background, take a note of these additional points: Research Questions 1. Start with a strong beginning: Begin the A research question is an inquiry about a topic background by defining the research topic and that can be answered through research. then identify the target audience. It is the initial step in a research project, and it 2. Cover key components: Explain all theories, will guide and focus the research. concepts, terms, and ideas that may feel unfamiliar to the target audience thoroughly. The research question will help the researcher form a hypothesis, or proposed idea that can be 3. Take note of important prerequisites: Go tested. through the relevant literature in detail. Take notes while reading and cite the sources. In a study, the primary research question should be clearly stated at the end of the introduction of 4. Maintain a balance: Make sure that the the grant proposal, and it usually specifies the background is focused on important details, but population to be studied, the intervention to be also appeals to a broader audience. implemented and other circumstantial factors. 5. Include historical data: Current issues largely originate from historical events or findings. If Scope and Delimitation the research borrows information from a historical context, add relevant data in the They help to narrow down the study and make it background. more manageable and relevant to the research goal. 6. Explain novelty: If the research study or methodology is unique or novel, provide an All scientific research has boundaries, whether explanation that helps to understand the research or not the authors clearly explain them. better. Your study's scope and delimitations are the 7. Increase engagement: To make the background sections where you define the broader engaging, build a story around the central theme parameters and boundaries of your research. of the research What is the scope in a research paper? Avoid these mistakes while writing the background: is the domain of your research. 1. Ambiguity: Don’t be ambiguous. While writing, It describes the extent to which the research assume that the reader does not understand any question will be explored in your study. intricate detail about your research. Articulating this early on helps you make your 2. Unrelated themes: Steer clear from topics that are research question focused and realistic. not related to the key aspects of your research topic. helps decide what data you need to collect (and, therefore, what data collection tools you need to 3. Poor organization: Do not place information design). without a structure. Make sure that the background reads in a chronological manner and Getting this right is vital for both academic organize the sub-sections so that it flows well. articles and funding applications. ELLE. R. - 12 – YOGORE Discussed by Sir Bryle P. Alim & Sir Kristopher Alan Tayag Helps to ensure that the research is relevant and addresses a gap in current knowledge or What are delimitations in a research paper? understanding. Delimitations are those factors or aspects of the research area that you'll exclude from your Theoretical Framework research. Creating a Theoretical Framework The scope and delimitations of the study are intimately linked. 1. Identify Key Concepts form a more detailed and narrowed-down 2. Evaluate Relevant Theories formulation of the scope in terms of exclusion. 3. Fit into Existing Research Explain what was (intentionally) not considered within the given piece of research. Conceptual Framework Delimitation Factors Provides a clear and concise understanding of the key concepts, variables, relationships, and Research Design: Mixed-methods research, assumptions that underlie a research study including thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews and statistical analysis of a survey Purposes of Conceptual Framework Timeframe 1. Clarify Research Questions: Define the Population Size problem and research questions Recruitment: use of sampling techniques 2. Provides a theoretical basis for the study: Theoretical foundation for the study, drawing on existing theories and concepts to guide the Limitations Example research process. Sample Size: Not large enough for generalizable 3. Guides data collection and analysis: Identify conclusions relevant variables and relationships that need to be studied, and guides the collection and Sampling Approach analysis of data. Methodological Pitfalls 4. Ensures research validity and reliability: focused, relevant, and valid, and that the data SOP Statement of the collected is reliable. Problem 5. Helps to make conclusions and recommendations: a basis for making conclusions and recommendations based on the Importance of Problem Statement collected data Writing a problem statement early in the research process helps to guide the research The Importance of a Conceptual Framework in design and methodology Research Ensures that the research is focused on 1. Provide a basis for research design: a blueprint addressing the specific problem at hand. for the research study, outlining the key concepts, variables, and relationships between them. This helps researchers to design a study that is logical, structured, and focused. ELLE. R. - 12 – YOGORE Discussed by Sir Bryle P. Alim & Sir Kristopher Alan Tayag 2. Guide data collection and analysis: helps to Null Hypothesis: Predicts no effect or identify the variables and relationships that will relationship between variables (Ho) be examined in the study and helps researchers to collect and analyze data that is relevant to the Alternative Hypothesis: Suggests a statistical research question and hypothesis. relationship exists (Ha) 3. Ensure validity and reliability: helps to ensure Difference: Null assumes no effect, while that the research is valid and reliable and ensures alternative predicts an effect that the research is measuring what it intends to measure and that the results are consistent over time. Definition of Terms 4. Facilitate communication: provides a common Definition of Terms language and understanding for researchers, facilitating communication and collaboration helps in simplifying some of the technical terms among team members. which are vital in the understanding of the research project. 5. Identify gaps in existing knowledge: helps to identify gaps in existing knowledge and to It is advantageous for the reader to include this develop new insights and theories. to prevent the ambiguous meaning of terms that might otherwise be interpreted in different ways, 6. Success of a research study: It provides a clear causing confusion and logical structure for the study, helps to ensure validity and reliability, and facilitates Enhance comprehension of important key terms. communication and collaboration among researchers. Conceptual vs. Operational Definitions Hypothesis Conceptual Definition: Based on dictionary or encyclopedia definitions (Direct Meaning) Null and alternative hypotheses Operational Definition: Derived from how terms are used in the study (Different Meaning) are used in statistical hypothesis testing. Examples of Definitions Null hypothesis Face to Face: Direct interaction between Always predicts no effect or no relationship individuals between variables Module: Standardized educational unit or topic Statement about a population parameter Online: Connected to a computer or network has equal sign Alternative hypothesis states your research prediction of an effect or relationship. opposes/contradicts the null not equal Null vs. Alternative Hypotheses