A500.7.3.RB_OYEYEMIOLUSANYA

A500.7.3.RB Summarize the main elements of Quantitative Research

Olusanya Oyeyemi

MSLD500 Leadership Foundations in Research

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Dr. Barta

08 May 2013

Abstract

To understand the logic and basic principles of quantitative research the idea of inferential statistics: generalization from sample to population

To learn how to obtain quantitative data, describe data, single variables and how to analyse relationships (dependencies) between two or more variables.

Quantitative Research Methods

Sampling

Types of variables and descriptive analysis

Inferential statistics from sample to population, bivariate analysis is Associations between two variables while elaboration and multivariate analysis for three or more variable.

The logic of social research

On the basis of theory we can develop hypotheses about relationships which ought to exist, if the theory is valid” (Rose & Sullivan 1996, 10).

Classic hypothetic deductive research

Go around the circle from theory to deductive reasoning to hypothesis to observations to induction to empirical generation back to theories.

THEORY

1.     Theories

2.     Deductive reasoning

3.     Hypotheses

EMPIRISM

4.     Observations

5.     Induction

6.     Empirical generalizations

Notes on studying societies and human beings

The object of study is not ”deaf” reflects and responds to new knowledge the object of study is not static but in constant flux temporality of knowledge human beings are rational and self-conscious agents causality problematic (probabilistic rather than deterministic) researcher is part of the object of study (society) objectivity problematic measurement problematic?

Description and explanation

Most research includes both description (what) and explanation (why).

Good explanatory research can only be built on solid descriptive knowledge.

Social research can also aim at comparison or classification.

Theoretical and empirical research

Empirical research has as the object of study some aspect (problem) of reality; data is obtained by some systematic method of empirical observation.

Theoretical research studies problems related to concepts, perspectives or theories of a given field (discipline), data consists of previous research (analysis and synthesis).

Sometimes empirical and theoretical researches are pitted against each other: more fruitful to see them as complementing each other.

Quantitative and qualitative research

Qualitative research aims at understanding, it answers primarily to (how) questions. Quantitative research aims at (causal) explanation. It answers primarily to (why) questions. Both qualitative and quantitative research can aim at description of social reality.

Complementary not contradictory different kinds of research questions and objects of research different perspectives on the same research objects questions (methodological triangulation) different stages in the research process

·      Quantitative  = Qualitative

·      Qualitative  = Quantitative

The quantitative method

The observations can be directly numeric information or can be classified into numeric variables. The strength of quantitative research enable description of social structures, processes that are not directly observable and well suited for comparisons between groups, areas etc.

Its weaknesses simplify and compress the complex reality abstract and constrained perspective. Only applicable for measure (quantifiable) phenomena and presumes relatively extensive knowledge on the subject matters in order to be able to ask correct questions.

Research as dialogue between theory and empirical observations

Data analysis should always be based on and discuss with theory and earlier research (theoretical framework). Theoretical formulation of research results enables generalization and enhances the “explanatory power” of the results.

The research process

·      Research idea

·      Literature review

·      Theoretical formulation of the research problem

·      Empirical research questions (operationalization)

·      Research design (planning)

·      Data collection

·      Data analysis

·      Answering the empirical research questions

·      Theoretical interpretation of the results

·      Comparison with earlier research

·      Conclusions

Planning research

1.     Selection of the theme / topic

2.     Getting acquainted with previous research on the same theme

3.     Selection of the theoretical approach

4.     Specification of the research problem

5.     Planning the empirical research process

Research designs

“The function of a research design is to ensure that the evidence obtained enables us to answer the initial question as unambiguously as possible.” (David de Vaus: Research Design in Social Research, 2001). Good research prevents manipulation of data.

1. Experimental design

2. Longitudinal design

3. Cross-sectional design

4. Case study design

·      Design ≠ method of data collection

·      Design ≠ quantitative / qualitative

Research problems

Data and methods are to be selected so that the research questions can be answered. The greatest challenge to any thinker is stating the problem in a way that will allow a solution (Bertrand Russell).

Elements of research design

·      Description, comparison, classification, explanation.

·      Time dimension: longitudinal or cross sectional.

·      Number of measurements? Prospective or retrospective.

·      Interventions.

·      Target population and research units.

·      Need for generalizations.

·      Method of data collection.

·      Comparisons: good research design enables explanations that contradict theory/hypotheses.

Logical structure of research and data.

Sampling methods

The aim of sampling is to produce a miniature copy of the population. Each member of the population has an equal likelihood of being selected into the sample. Hence we can make inferences about the larger population based on the sample. Probability sampling vs. purposive (non-probability) sampling methods.

1. Simple random sampling

2. Systematic selection (interval sampling)

3. Stratified sampling (proportional and disproportional)

4. Clustered sampling

5. Quota sampling (non-probability method)

Representativeness

1. Equivalence of universe and population (sampling frame).

2. Equivalence of population and sample when sampling is done correctly these should be equivalent within a certain error margin the bigger the sample, the lesser the likelihood of sampling error.

Methods for obtaining data

Survey research (all require a structured questionnaire, where each observation unit is posed with the exact same questions)

·      postal questionnaire survey

·      e-mail questionnaire survey

·      (Internet polls)

·      face-to-face interviews

·      telephone interviews

·      Systematic observation

·      Text analysis

·      Statistical data (secondary analysis)

·      Register data

Ethical principles in obtaining data no harm may be done to the participants “informed consent“ anonymity confidence