Quantitative Research

 QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH

Quantitative research is the process of collecting and analyzing numerical data.

Quantitative research is widely used in the natural and social sciences: biology, chemistry, psychology, economics, sociology, marketing, etc.

CHARACTERISTICS

- Deductive

- Studies well-known phenomena

- Testing of hypotheses and theories

- Conducted in controlled setting

- Stabdardized numerical data collection

ADVANTAGES

Replication

Repeating the study is possible because of standardized data collection protocols and tangible definitions of abstract concepts.

Direct comparisons of results

The study can be reproduced in other cultural settings, times or with different groups of participants. Results can be compared statistically.

Large samples

Data from large samples can be processed and analyzed using reliable and consistent procedures through quantitative data analysis.

Hypothesis testing

Using formalized and established hypothesis testing procedures means that you have to carefully consider and report your research variables, predictions, data collection and testing methods before coming to a conclusion.

DISADVANTAGES

Superficiality

Using precise and restrictive operational definitions may inadequately represent complex concepts. For example, the concept of mood may be represented with just a number in quantitative research, but explained with elaboration in qualitative research.

Narrow focus

Predetermined variables and measurement procedures can mean that you ignore other relevant observations.

Structural bias

Despite standardized procedures, structural biases can still affect quantitative research. Missing data, imprecise measurements or inappropriate sampling methods are biases that can lead to the wrong conclusions.

Lack of context

Quantitative research often uses unnatural settings like laboratories or fails to consider historical and cultural contexts that may affect data collection and results.