Reply To Discussion: What Is Quantitative Research?

Reply To Discussion 250 Wordswhat Is Quantitative Research What

What is quantitative research? What is qualitative research? What is mixed methods research? The type of research to be carried out on a certain topic depends on the type of data the researcher will deal with combined with the aim of the research.

From that we have three main types of research methods namely: Quantitative Research This method heavily relies on numerical data to test and confirm theories. It does this by quantifying opinions, attributes and behavior. The data collection methods used are structured and the sample size used has to be large. Data collection methods used in quantitative research include surveys, longitudinal studies, website interactions, online polls and systematic observations. The main aim of quantitative research is to observe patterns.

Qualitative Research This method of research is exploratory in that its main aim is to get understanding of underlying reasons and opinions and in doing so provide an insight to the research problem. The sample size used in this method is small and makes use of open-ended questions. The data collection employed here are unstructured or semi-structured in nature and include: focus groups, face interviews, participation and observation. The main aim is to uncover trends in thoughts.

Mixed Method Research This is a hybrid of the above-mentioned methods as it used to get the breadth and depth of a research problem. It is advantageous as it allows for the possibility of triangulation whereby several means can be used to examine the same phenomena. It is employed in situations where a researcher wants to validate the methods used or clarify findings of one methods based off on the findings of another method.

Paper For Above instruction

Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research each serve distinct purposes in the scientific investigation process. Quantitative research relies heavily on numerical data to test hypotheses, confirm theories, and identify patterns across large sample sizes. Its structured data collection methods—such as surveys, longitudinal studies, and online polls—enable researchers to quantify opinions and behaviors objectively. This method is particularly effective when seeking to establish relationships, measure frequency, or make predictions based on observed trends (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2018).

Qualitative research, by contrast, emphasizes understanding the underlying reasons, motivations, and opinions of participants. It employs smaller samples and uses unstructured or semi-structured data collection techniques such as focus groups, face-to-face interviews, and participant observation. These methods help uncover nuanced insights into complex social phenomena, providing depth and context to research questions. Qualitative research is especially useful in exploratory studies where understanding meanings and perceptions is crucial (Denzin & Lincoln, 2018).

Mixed methods research integrates both quantitative and qualitative approaches, offering a comprehensive framework for investigating complex phenomena. This methodology allows researchers to corroborate findings through triangulation and enhances the robustness of the research outcomes. By combining numerical data with rich contextual information, mixed methods studies can provide both breadth and depth, leading to more nuanced and credible insights (Tashakkori & Teddlie, 2010). This integration often results in more profound judgments, as the complementary strengths of both approaches enable a fuller understanding of the research problem.

The results of mixed methods research are often considered more profound than those derived solely from quantitative or qualitative methods because they provide a multi-dimensional perspective. Quantitative data offers statistical validity, while qualitative data offers contextual richness. Together, they facilitate a comprehensive analysis that captures the complexity of human behaviors and social phenomena, resulting in more holistic and meaningful conclusions (Creswell & Creswell, 2018).

When faced with an ethical situation, determining the appropriate course of action involves several key principles. First, researchers should adhere to established ethical guidelines such as respect for autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Consulting institutional review boards (IRBs) or ethics committees ensures oversight and accountability (Resnik, 2018). Additionally, fostering transparency, obtaining informed consent, protecting participant confidentiality, and considering potential harms are essential. Ethical decision-making also requires critical reflection on one's responsibilities and potential impacts, prioritizing the well-being of participants and integrity of the research process (Beauchamp & Childress, 2013).

References

• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2013). Principles of Biomedical Ethics. Oxford University Press.
• Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. Sage Publications.
• Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2018). Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research. Sage Publications.
• Denzin, N. K., & Lincoln, Y. S. (2018). The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research. Sage Publications.
• Resnik, D. B. (2018). Ethics of Scientific Research. Impact of Research Ethics. Academic Press.
• Tashakkori, A., & Teddlie, C. (2010). Mixed Methodologies. Sage Publications.