Quantitative Research

When I think Quantitative Research, my mind automatically jumps to NUMBERS.  I like the concept that numbers represent, black and white, no gray.  The downside of this would be the simplifying of great things.  When you look at numbers, things could go one of two ways, accurately or inaccurately.  There isn’t room for an in between which cause greater things to be crammed into something that could be summarized with a limited explanation.  Quantitative research focuses on the why of things, it’s looking for an explanation to things rather than then aim of the understanding of it. 

Quantitative research focuses on the elements that can be measured; something that can be qualified or measured. When reviewing the main elements of quantitative research, it reminded me of the scientific method.  You are to generate a hypothesis/idea.  Then the researcher devises up an experiment to test the hypothesis using both a controlled and manipulated variable.  During the experiment, the researcher collects as much data as possible to test the hypothesis.  After all of that is done, the researcher has to comprise an analysis of the information gathered to determine if the hypothesis/idea holds true.

When the researcher comes up with the experiment, there are a few things that they focus on.  The first element would be the description.  The researcher needs to devise an explanation for the reasoning behind the hypothesis.  They then look at the time dimension, how the research is going to be designed.  Next, the focus needs to be on whom they are targeting for the research, what is population is being looked at.  The researcher will then comprise how the data is being collected.  Finally, they will look at if there are any comparisons with the research findings.

Quantitative research compared to qualitative research really focuses on the why, the numbers behind the reasoning.  Where as, qualitative research is more flexible in the how, the understanding of things.  Both of these research types work together to help the idea be completely understood, they compliment each other.