Ever had a tough time with quantitative research? You're not alone!
Quantitative research is the process of collecting and analyzing numerical data to understand and study various phenomena using statistical methods. Many find this tedious process tricky.
But don't worry!
Our complete guide is here to guide you through the important steps and tricks to handle writing a quantitative research paper with confidence. We've even added some examples to make it easier.
So, let's dive in and learn together!
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Quantitative research involves gathering and studying numerical data. Its applications include identifying trends, making forecasts, testing cause-and-effect links, and drawing broader conclusions applicable to larger groups.
In this method, researchers employ tools such as surveys, experiments, and observations to gather data. Whereas in qualitative research, you deal with non-numeric data, such as text, video, or audio.
Quantitative research is extensively applied in natural and social sciences, including biology, chemistry, psychology, economics, sociology, and marketing, among others.
Here are some distinct quantitative research characteristics:
These characteristics make quantitative research different from qualitative research.
Data collection is the systematic process of gathering information for research purposes. It is a critical starting point, ensuring that the information gathered is relevant, accurate, and comprehensive.
Data analysis is the second important aspect of quantitative research. After collecting the data, the data is analyzed with statistical methods. When analyzing, it is important that the results are relevant and related to the objective and aim of the research.
Below are some common statistical analysis methods that are used to analyze the collected data.
Afterward, other methods like inferential statistics could be used to gather the results.
‘What are the four types of quantitative research?’
Quantitative research has four distinct types, and all four of them are regarded as primary research methods. Primary quantitative research is more common and useful than secondary research methods.
It is mainly because, in them, the researcher collects the data directly. He does not depend on previous research and collects the data from scratch.
Below are the four types of quantitative research methods.
This type of research is conducted through means of online surveys, online polls, and questionnaires. A group of people is chosen for the survey, and the method is used by big and small organizations and companies. They use it to understand their customers better.
Ideally, the survey is done through face-to-face meetings and interviews. Now, it is conducted through various online methodologies. Below are the common types of surveys.
This kind of research is used in the fields of applied sciences, medicine, and marketing.
Correlational research is conducted to identify the relationship between two entities. These entities must be closely related and have a significant impact on each other.
This research is conducted to identify, evaluate, and understand the correlation between the variables and how they depend on each other.
The researchers use mathematical and statistical methods to understand this correlation. Some factors that they consider include relationships, trends, and patterns between these variables.
Sometimes, the researchers make changes in one of the variables to notice the effect on the other one.
This research is also known as quasi-experimental research. It is based on the cause and effect relationship between the two variables. Here, one of the variables is dependent on the other one, but the other one is independent. The researcher does not change the independent variable.
The research is not limited to statistical analysis only but includes other groups and variables also. The research could be conducted on the variables, no matter the kind of relationship they have. The statistical analysis method is used to acquire the results.
This kind of research is based on proving or contradicting a theory or statement. It is also known as true experimentation and is usually focused on single or multiple theories.
The respective theory is not proven yet, and the research method is commonly used in natural sciences.
There could be some theories involved in this research. Due to this, it is more common in social sciences.
After determining the kind of research, finding the right data collection method is the most important step. Data could be collected through both the sampling and surveys and polls method.
In quantitative research, two types of sampling methods are used: probability and non-probability sampling.
1. Probability Sampling
The data is collected by sifting some individuals from the general population and creating samples. The individuals, data samples are chosen randomly and without any particular selection criteria.
Probability sampling is further divided into the following kinds.
2. Non-Probability Sampling
In this kind of data collection, the researcher uses his knowledge and experience to choose the samples. The researcher is involved and has a set of criteria. Due to this, not all individuals have the chance to be selected for the research.
Below are the main types of non-probability sampling frameworks.
After the sample or group is chosen, the researcher could use polls or surveys to collect the required research data.
In this kind of research, the data is collected from a selected group of people. The data is used to identify new trends and collect information about different things and topics. Through the survey, the researcher could reach a wider population.
Based on the time allocated for the research, it could be used to collect more information and data.
When creating questions and options for the survey, the researchers use four measurement scales or criteria. These four parameters include nominal, interval, ordinal, and ratio measurement scales. Without them, no multiple-choice questions could be created.
The questions used for the survey must be close-ended. These could be a mix of different kinds of questions, and the responses could be analyzed through different rating scales.
After creating the survey, the next thing is to distribute it. Below are some of the commonly used survey distribution methods.
Like surveys, polls are also used to collect the data. It also has close-ended quantitative research questions, and election and exit polls are commonly used in this survey.
Quantitative and qualitative research are major kinds of research. They are mainly used in the subjects that follow detailed research patterns. How does it differ from quantitative research?
Below is a detailed comparison of the two kinds of research.
Aspect | Quantitative Research | Qualitative Research |
Research Focus | Objective, numerical data, facts, and statistics. | Subjective, in-depth understanding, context, and narratives. |
Typically, structured and closed-ended questions. | Open-ended questions, exploring meanings and experiences. | |
Data Collection Methods | Surveys, experiments, structured observations. | Interviews, focus groups, unstructured observations. |
Sample Size | Larger samples for statistical analysis. | Smaller, purposeful samples for in-depth insights. |
Data Analysis | Statistical analysis, quantifiable results. | Thematic analysis, content analysis, narrative interpretation. |
Generalization | Generalization to larger populations is common. | Emphasis on context, often limited generalization. |
Researcher's Role | Typically detached observer. | Often an active participant, interacting with subjects. |
Want to know more about the differences between these types of research? Check out this extensive read on qualitative vs. quantitative research to get more insights!
Quantitative research offers several advantages to researchers. Some of the main reasons why researchers use this kind of research are discussed below:
Due to all of these advantages, researchers prefer using this kind of research method. It is easy to sample, collect, and analyze data and repeat the procedure easily.
Despite the benefits for the researchers, quantitative research design has some limitations. It may not be suitable for more complex and detailed kinds of topics.
Below are some common quantitative research limitations.
Due to these reasons, quantitative research is not an ideal choice for detailed kinds of research. For them, qualitative research works better.
To help you further, we have added some useful examples of quantitative research here.
Below are some helpful quantitative research examples to help you understand it better.
Now that you've got the hang of how to do quantitative research and why it's valuable, you're all set to begin your research journey.
The qualitative research method shows the idea and perception of your targeted audience. However, not every student is able to choose the right approach while writing a research paper. It requires a thorough understanding of both qualitative research and quantitative research methods.
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