Week 6 - Quantitative Research

What is the primary focus of quantitative research?

• Qualitative insights

• Numerical data and statistical analysis

• Subjective interpretations

• Personal experiences

Answer explanation

The primary focus of quantitative research is on numerical data and statistical analysis, which allows for objective measurement and evaluation of variables, unlike qualitative insights or subjective interpretations.

Which of the following is a characteristic of quantitative research?

• Focus on small sample sizes

• Emphasis on narrative data

• Structured and systematic process

• Flexible approach

Answer explanation

Quantitative research is characterized by a structured and systematic process, allowing for objective measurement and analysis of data. This contrasts with the other options, which are more aligned with qualitative research.

What type of variable is manipulated by the researcher in quantitative research?

• Dependent variable

• Independent variable

• Control variable

• Extraneous variable

Answer explanation

In quantitative research, the independent variable is the one that the researcher manipulates to observe its effect on the dependent variable. This is crucial for establishing cause-and-effect relationships.

Which type of quantitative research examines the relationships between variables?

• Experimental research

• Descriptive research

• Correlational research

• Causal-comparative research

Answer explanation

Correlational research specifically examines the relationships between variables, identifying how they may change together, unlike experimental or descriptive research which focus on different aspects.

What is the purpose of descriptive research?

• To test hypotheses

• To manipulate variables

• To summarize existing phenomena

• To establish cause-and-effect relationships

Answer explanation

The purpose of descriptive research is to summarize existing phenomena, providing a clear picture of what is happening without manipulating variables or establishing cause-and-effect relationships.

In correlational research, what does a positive correlation indicate?

• One variable increases while the other decreases

• No relationship between variables

• Both variables tend to increase together

• One variable has no effect on the other

Answer explanation

A positive correlation indicates that as one variable increases, the other variable also tends to increase. This means both variables move in the same direction, making 'Both variables tend to increase together' the correct choice.

What is a key feature of experimental research?

• Random assignment of participants

• Observing without manipulation

• Using qualitative data

• Describing existing phenomena

Answer explanation

A key feature of experimental research is the random assignment of participants, which helps control for confounding variables and allows for causal inferences. This distinguishes it from observational or descriptive studies.

Which of the following is a method of data collection in quantitative research?

• Focus groups

• Surveys

• Ethnography

• Case studies

Answer explanation

Surveys are a quantitative research method that involves collecting numerical data from a large group, making them suitable for statistical analysis. In contrast, focus groups, ethnography, and case studies are qualitative methods.

What does the null hypothesis (H0) suggest?

• The alternative hypothesis is true

• The results are inconclusive

• There is no effect or difference

• There is a significant effect

Answer explanation

The null hypothesis (H0) posits that there is no effect or difference between groups or conditions being studied. This means it serves as a default position that indicates no relationship exists.

Which sampling technique involves selecting participants based on convenience?

• Convenience sampling

• Cluster sampling

• Purposive sampling

• Stratified sampling

Answer explanation

Convenience sampling involves selecting participants who are easily accessible or available, making it the correct choice for this question. Other options like cluster, purposive, and stratified sampling use different selection criteria.