PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2 HUMSS 12 0

PRACTICAL

Lesson 1: Characteristics,
Strengths, Weaknesses, and Kinds
of Quantitative Research

Victorious Christian Montessori College

Alfonso, Inc.
Dir. Pshyche Thea F. Angio
PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2 HUMSS 12 1

Lesson 1.1 Characteristics of Quantitative Research

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Quantitative Research is an objective, systematic, empirical
investigation of the observable phenomena through the use of computational
techniques. It highlights the numerical analysis of data hoping that the numbers
yield unbiased results that can be generalized to some larger population and
explain a particular observation. Simple quantitative research is concerned with
numbers and their relationship with events.

Characteristics of Quantitative Research

1. Objective. Quantitative research seeks accurate measurement and analysis of target
concepts. It is not based on mere intuitions and guesses. Data are gathered before
proposing a conclusion or solution to a problem.
2. Clearly defined Research Questions. In quantitative research, the researchers know in
advance what they are looking for. The research questions are well defined for which
objective answers are sought. All aspects of the study are carefully designed before data
are gathered.
3. Structured Research Instruments. Data are normally gathered using structured research
tools such as questionnaires to collect measurable characteristics of the population such
as age, socio-economic status, number of children, etc.
4. Numerical Data. Data are in the form of numbers and statistics, often organized and
presented using tables, charts, graphs, and figures that consolidate large numbers of data
to show trends, relationships, or differences among variables.
5. Large Sample sizes. To arrive at a more reliable data analysis, normal population
distribution is preferred. This requires a large number of
population size, depending on how the characteristics of the population vary.
Random sampling is recommended in determining the sample size to avoid
researchers’ bias in interpreting the results.
6. Replication. Reliable quantitative research can be repeated to verify and
confirm the correctness of the results in another setting.
7. Future Outcomes. By using complex mathematical calculations and with
the aid of computers, if-then scenarios may be formulated thus predicting
future results.

Lesson 1. 2 Strengths and Weaknesses of Quantitative Research

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 PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2 HUMSS 12 2

Conducting quantitative research has both advantages and disadvantages to the

researcher.

Strengths of Quantitative Research

•It is objective. Since it provides numerical data, it can’t be easily misinterpreted.
•The use of statistical techniques facilitates sophisticated analyses and allows you to
comprehend a huge amount of vital characteristics of data.
•The numerical data can be analyzed quickly and easily. By employing the statistically valid
random models, findings can be generalized to the population about which information is
necessary.
•Quantitative studies are replicable, standardized approaches allow the study to be replicated in
different areas or over time with the formulation of comprehensible findings.

Weaknesses of Quantitative Research

• Quantitative research requires a large number of respondents, it is
assumed that the larger the sample is, the more statistically accurate the
findings are.
• It is costly. Since there are more respondents compared to qualitative
research, the expenses will be greater in reaching out to these people
and in reproducing the questionnaires.
• The information contextual factors to help interpret the results or to
explain variations are usually ignored. It does not consider the distinct
capacity of the respondents to share and elaborate further information
, unlike qualitative research.
 Information is difficult to gather using structured research instruments
specifically, sensitive issues like pre-marital sex, domestic violence,
among others.
• If not done seriously and correctly, data from questionnaires may be
incomplete and inaccurate. Researchers must look at respondents who
are just guessing in answering the instrument.
Source: Faltado, R.E., Bombita, M.B., & Boholano H. B. (2017). Practical Research 2 (Quantitative Research for SHS) (pp
2-3). Cubao, Quezon City: Lorimar Publishing Inc.

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