Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science

Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

TYPES OF RESEARCH APPLIED TO HOME SCIENCE - II QUANTITATIVE

RESEARCH, QUALITATIVE RESEARCH, CONCEPTUAL RESEARCH,
EMPIRICAL RESEARCH

A systematic investigation employed to increase or revise the existing knowledge by finding

out new facts is known as Research. It is about addressing an issue or enquiring and
responding to a question or solving a problem or even to identify a new issue or a problem.
Two important types of Research are –Basic Research that aims at increasing the scientific
knowledge and Applied Research that aims at using the findings of Basic Research for
solving the problem or for developing new processes or products,

In this module, four different types of research applied to Home Science are discussed-
Quantitative Research, Qualitative Research, Conceptual Research and Empirical Research.

3.1 Quantitative Research

Quantitative research is the systematic investigation of some observable phenomena through

statistical, mathematical or computational techniques The main purpose of quantitative
research is to develop and use models in mathematics, theories and hypotheses related to the
research study. Measurement is an important aspect in this research. This connects the
observation made and mathematical expression. Data that is collected will be in numerical
form like percentage. The data is subjected to statistical tests.

Quantitative research is mainly used in psychology, economics, demography, sociology,

community health and human development. Qualitative research gives information about only
selected cases studied and other conclusions will remain as hypotheses. But Quantitative
research is used to identify the true hypotheses among them.
Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science
Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

Quantitative research is performed using scientific methods. This includes

1. Models, hypotheses and theories generation
2. Instruments development and measurement methods
3. Control of experiments and manipulation of variables
4. Empirical data collection
5. Modelling and analysis of data.

Quantitative research always goes hand in hand with qualitative research. While qualitative
research helps in forming hypotheses, Quantitative research is used to test these hypotheses.

Quantitative research may proxies as stand ins for quantities that cannot be directly measured
.An example is assessment of the quantity of a product to be manufactured even before the
launch of the product in the market. This type of research helps in determining the
relationship between independent and dependent variables before collection of data

Quantitative research may be either descriptive type or experimental type of research. A

descriptive research establishes only the association among variables, whereas an
experimental research reveals the causative effect.

Characteristics of a Quantitative research are:

1. Data is gathered by use of structured research instruments
2. Results are based on larger sample size that is true representation of the population
3. Research is replicated or repeated which is highly reliable
4. The research objectives clearly address the research qualities
5. Design of the experiments are well planned
6. Data are in the form of numbers and statistics well represented in the form of tables, figures
and charts
7. Research is used to generalise the concepts
8 .Future results are predicted
9. Research is used to find out the causal relationship
10. Questionnaires including computer software are used for data collection
Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science
Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

When the quantitative research results are reported, it is essential to explain the method of
data collection, to repeat the unexpected events, to explain the technique followed, to use
appropriate statistical tools and to declare any assumptions made.

In case of inferential statistics, descriptive statistics has to be explained along with the
confidential intervals, sample size, degrees of freedom and significance level.
The report of Quantitative research has the following parts:

Introduction
Usually this is written in past tense and. from the third person point of view. This section
will cover the following details:
Problem identification, review of literature, description of the theoretical framework
Methodology
This gives the details of the study population, sampling technique, data collection and data
analysis

Results
Quantitative research collects data in numerical form. This can be put into categories, or in
rank order, or measured in units of measurement. This type of data can be used to construct
graphs and tables of raw data.

But experiments give quantitative data which are concerned with measuring things.
However, other research methods, such as observations and questionnaires can produce both
quantitative and qualitative information.

For example, a rating scale or closed questions on a questionnaire may generate quantitative
data as these produce either numerical data or data that can be put into categories (e.g. “yes”,
“no” answers). In open-ended questions , descriptive responses are obtained.

Experimental methods limit the possible ways in which a research participant can react to and
express appropriate social behaviour. Findings are therefore likely to be context-bound and
simply a reflection of the assumptions which the researcher brings to the investigation.
Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science
Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

Tables and figures exhibit the values obtained by processing the data by doing appropriate
statistical analysis.

Discussion
The results are subjected to comprehensive analysis with logical supportive statements of
other researchers findings. This part will be in present tense with description of trends of
results, comparison of groups, relationship among variables, discussion on how the results
helped fill the gap in the understanding of the research problem and limitations of the study.
Conclusion
This part of the report gives the summary of the findings, policies and recommendations for
future research.

Advantages of Quantitative Research

1. Large sample size
2. Accuracy of results
3. Reproducibility of the results
4. Can summarise vast information
5. Comparison of groups is easy
6. No personal bias

Limitations
1. Contexual details may be missed
2. Sometimes results may reflect the views of the researcher rather than the participant
3. Results provide less details on behaviour, attitude and motivation
4. Sometimes data may be narrow and specific
5. As the research is done in an unusual and artificial environment, a control is required.

3.2 Qualitative research

This is primarily exploratory research. This type of research helps in understanding the basic
reasons for the problem under study, opinions and motivations. This research helps in
Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science
Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

developing hypotheses for quantitative research. Experiments and measurements do not

contribute the data.

In Qualitative research the objectives are elaborate description whereas in Quantitative

research, the objectives are measured data subjected to statistical analysis. As opposed to
Quantitative research, in Qualitative research, the researcher is aware of only a rough idea of
the data well in advance. However, the data in Qualitative research is rich but time
consuming. Also the researcher is completely involved in the problem under study.

There are three main methods of data collection

1 .interactive interviewing
2. written statements by the participants
3. observation
There are two approaches to Qualitative research:
1. Funnel approach in which the general research questions for data collection get narrower
and narrower till conclusions are drawn 2.Induction approach in which the specific narrow
question gets broader and broader till conclusions are drawn.
Triangulation is a new approach in Qualitative research.

In an example of Qualitative research, If a survey is required about the performance of

students in a particular subject, data is collected from multiple source- the teachers, students.
parents and higher authorities, in multiple ways like interview and observation and by
collecting different types of data like assessing the students records, observing the students
and interviewing the teachers.

Characteristics of Qualitative research are:

1. The research is concerned with opinions , feelings and experiences
2. It explains naturally occurring social problems
3. Theories and concepts can be developed with the collected data.
4. Data is collected by direct contact and there is no chance for manipulation of data.
Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science
Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

Three key elements that define Qualitative research are :

1. Research design
Naturalistic that involves study of the real worlds, Emergent that involves skipping of rigid
designs by the researcher in order to eliminate responding to opportunities to pursue new
paths of discovery as they emerge and Purposeful where cases for study are selected as they
are information rich

2. Data collection
This is by data observation, personal experience, empathic neutrality and dynamic system. A
good example of a qualitative research method would be use of unstructured and group
interviews. This may generate qualitative data through the use of open questions. This allows
the respondent to talk in some depth, expressing in their own words. This helps the researcher
develop a natural environment with understanding of the situation. However, it can be time
consuming to conduct the unstructured interview and analyse the qualitative data.

3. Analysis of the data

Qualitative research collects information that is not in numerical form. For example, open-
ended questionnaires, unstructured interviews and unstructured observations may yield
Qualitative data that is typically descriptive in nature and therefore difficult to analyze than
quantitative data. The collected data are made known to every one in the language of the
informant.

Advantages of Qualitative research

1. More realistic view of the situation is got
2. It is possible to have direct interaction with the participants
3. Data collection, analysis of data and interpretation of results can be done in a flexible way
4. Results reveal newer understanding of the problem
5. Interaction with participants is possible in their own set up and language
Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science
Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

Limitations
1. Deviation possible from the original objective
2. Characteristics of the researcher may lead to arriving at different conclusions
3. Replication of the study may be difficult
4. Data collection and analysis are time consuming and expensive
5. Researcher should have rich experience
6. Data has lack of consistency and reliability

H16RM0 3.3 Conceptual research

This is a type of Scientific research , the other being Empirical research. Conceptual research
focuses on the theoretical aspects or the concept of the problem under study. In simple terms,
it involves pen and paper.. Without attempting any experiment, just with observations
research work is aimed at. Conceptual research makes use of brain and not the hands. Study
on motion of planets and various causes for diseases are simple examples of Conceptual
research. This is also referred as Analytical research. Conceptual research and Empirical
research are not mutually exclusive. Conceptual research is mainly used in social sciences and
philosophy. Conceptual research is a link between different concepts , theories and groups of
ideas.

The main aspect of Conceptual research is observation –may be of an individual or that of

others from where theories find their origin. For example, many of our ancient concepts about
stellar constellations were established from observations of how Copernicus saw the universe.
Many years later ,his Conceptual research was simplified by Galileo .The Conceptual
observations of Galileo later gave rise to a number of experimental research to prove or reject
predictions made during that period. So another way to think of it would be to observe, come
up with a concept or theories aligned with previous theories to derive new theories which may
be empirically examined to assess the problem under study.

The examples of conceptual skills depends upon the medium that they represent. Different
events require different understanding. How you convey your understanding to others as well
as yourself requires the ability of understanding the dynamics of the task in hand. The more
Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science
Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

complicated the task, the greater the dynamics. This is where the intelligence quota comes in.
The higher the quota the greater the ability for understanding and, conveying that
understanding to others. But even there we have problems. This is because one can have great
ability towards understanding, but they don't have the aptitude for the subject. So you can
teach a person about science , but he may never become a scientist because he lacks the
aptitude for the work.
.
3.4 Empirical research

The term empirical was earlier referred to certain ancient Greek practitioners of medicine
who rejected adherence to the dogmatic doctrines of the day, preferring instead to rely on the
observation of phenomena as perceived in experience. Later empiricism referred to a theory
of knowledge in philosophy which is attached to the principle that knowledge arises from
experience and evidence gathered mainly using the senses. In scientific use, the term
empirical refers to the gathering of data using only evidence that is observable by the senses
or in some cases using calibrated scientific instruments.

In empirical experiments, mainly in education research, the experiments are conducted by

either one of the three types of designs-pre-experimental, experimental and quasi
experimental..

Empirical research makes use of empirical evidence. It is a way of gaining knowledge using
direct and indirect observation or experience. Analysis may include qualitative or quantitative.
Research design is likely to vary depending on the area of interest. Many researchers may
prefer to combine both qualitative and quantitative forms of analysis. They depend on the data
obtained by observation to formulate and test theories and to come to conclusions

The researcher assesses the interaction between the instrument and the phenomenon or the
problem of interest. He or she calibrates the instrument used for measurement with the help of
standards and recording the results before applying to the unknown objects..
Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science
Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

It is very essential in scientific studies to determine the validity of empirical research by

analysing the data using standardised statistical methods like t test, ANOVA, regression and
Chi Square test. Hypothesis testing is done and the proposed hypothesis is accepted or
rejected.

The empirical cycle includes-observation, induction or formulation of hypothesis, deduction

or formulation of experiments to test the hypothesis, testing ie., data collection and hypothesis
testing, evaluation and interpretation of data.

Two main types of empirical research are- 1.Experimental research involving treatment or
intervention used to bring a change in a series of variables and 2.Non experimental research
where the participants are observed without any experimental intervention.

Experimental research method involves experimental group and control group and is referred
as true experimental research. Another type is non-experimental research where there is no
random assignment of the participants into groups.

Experimental research findings are published in scholarly journals and not in popular
magazines. But if a research article appears in a peer reviewed journal, it does not mean that it
is an empirical research work.

Some important characteristics of such articles are-they will be lengthy, there will be an
abstract, bibliographic reference with inclusion of phrases like ‘ in this study’, ’were
administered’,’ assessed’ and ’using the procedure’.

Seven criteria for Empirical research

1. Samples should be randomly selected from the target population and subjected to treatment
.There is possibility for achievement of internal validity. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA)
can be used for high precision of experimental studies.
Paper Code and Title: H16RM Research Methodology and Statistics for Home Science
Module Code and Name: H16RM03 – Types of Research Applied to Home Science - II
Name of the Content Writer: Dr. G. P. Jeyanthi

2. Any extraneous factors which may be associated with variation in an outcome variable can
be controlled by techniques such as selection, stratification and statistical adjustment or can be
randomized. For example, if there are known socio-economic status (SES) differences on a
dependent variable, the researcher can select cases within a relatively narrow range of SES so
that its impact becomes negligible or, at least, lessened

3. It is preferred that outcomes (and covariates) be assessed with relatively little

measurement error. Other things being equal, unreliability increases unexplained
variation within groups and reduces the power of the analysis

4. Validity is an important factor that refers to the degree to which inferences can legitimately
be made.

5. Implementation of Treatment Variable is yet another important aspect.

There must be some record or documentation supporting the fact that the
intended treatment has taken place.

6. While there are often alternative analytical approaches that result in

equivalent analyses with respect to interpretation of results, it is also the
case that inappropriate analysis may limit interpretability.

7.: While the use of inferential statistical methods has been a valuable
tool in many applied research fields, their use has also led to some
unfortunate opportunities to make incorrect or misleading interpretations
of results.