Characteristics of Quantitative Research Methods

Quantitative research involves the process of collecting data to test a hypothesis through analysis. We have two types of quantitative research methods; Primary and secondary quantitative research methods. Although these methods are different from each other, they have similar characteristics that distinguish them from qualitative research methods. These characteristics make them effective for the testing of the hypothesis for which they are intended. These characteristics include

Measurable Variables

Quantitative research involves items that are used in measuring the research variables i.e the main factors in the hypothesis. These measurable variables form the basis of the questions found in the questionnaires or online survey. If you employ the services of a professional online survey company, the variables are what they will consider first. Without these variables, quantitative research cannot continue. These variables can be age, academic success, class, financial status and so many more.

Use of standard research instruments

Quantitative research uses research instruments like questionnaires, online polls, online surveys, web surveys and so many more. This standard research instruments guide the data collection methodologies and ensure accurate and reliable data is collected. Also, it ensures fast collection of data characterized by a minimum amount of stress during the research process. Without these instruments, measurement of variables and consequently testing of hypothesis is practically impossible. For a guide on how to use these instruments, you could employ the services of a professional online survey company.

Normal population distribution

To ensure that the results gotten are valid and reliable, quantitative research adopts the principle of normal population distribution characterized by a large number of respondents. This helps to ensure that the research is indeed effective and its purpose met. Also, the normal population distribution adopted by quantitative research ensures that all things related to the research including extraneous variables are dealt with accordingly. If this characteristic is absent in the quantitative research process, it could be argued that the tested hypothesis would prove to be wrong when tested with large numbers.

Simple representation of data

After using the data collection methodologies, the collected data is arranged and presented in a way that is easy to read. It could be represented by charts, tables, graphs, and other graphical representations. This helps the researcher to analyze a large amount of data in a very short time. Also, it makes the interpretation of the analysis easier. Through this graphical representation, anyone can easily see trends and patterns that might either prove or debunk the hypothesis in question.

Repeatable methods of research

Quantitative research methods can be repeated to ensure the validity of a hypothesis. This is important if this hypothesis is going to be published. Before publication, the hypothesis is presented to an elite few who are expected to test the validity of the hypothesis through quantitative research methods that can be repeated. This ensures that the hypothesis when confirmed can be published and made available to the public for prediction of future outcomes or similar experiments.

Prediction of future outcomes

After a quantitative research process, the results gotten from the analysis could either prove the hypothesis right or wrong. If right, this hypothesis can become a law that can be used to predict the outcomes of similar situations in the future. This is one of the most important reasons why research is carried out. However, if proven wrong, the hypothesis is of no use and one could say there's no relationship, effect, trend, or pattern between the variables.

Use of Measuring instruments

Quantitative research could sometimes involve the use of measuring instruments to ensure the collection of accurate data from the field. However, this might not apply to online surveys. These measuring instruments may include a scale for measuring weight or mass, a stadiometer for measuring height, a barometer for measuring air pressure, a sphygmomanometer used in measuring blood pressure and so many more. These instruments are calibrated and are expected to give reliable measurements when used correctly

Conclusion

These characteristics make quantitative research methods effective for any hypothesis they are used for. However, not all hypotheses can be tested by quantitative research as some are better suited for qualitative research methods. So before using any of these methods you should ensure that they are well suited for the hypothesis in question. If you are not sure, then you should consult a research expert.