12

Practical Research II
Quarter 1
Module 1: Nature of Inquiry and Research
I. INTRODUCTION

Hello there, Grade 12 students! I know you had fun doing research when it was first
introduced to you during your Grade 11. In your last grade in the Senior High School, let us
continue re-searching new knowledge as you are about to learn additional research competencies
through your new course in Practical Research II or Research in Daily Life II.
Research could be classified either qualitative or quantitative. The latter is the focus of this
course. To begin this course, you shall learn some foundation concepts on the nature of inquiry
and research.
Hence, in this first Module: Nature of Inquiry and Research, you are expected to attain the
following:
1. Define quantitative research,
2. Differentiate quantitative and qualitative research; and
3. Identify the kinds of quantitative research and describe their characteristics, strengths,
and weaknesses

II. PRE-TEST. Choose the letter that corresponds to the best answer.
1. Which statement best describes an inquiry-based learning?
a. It entails the collection of numerical data.
b. It exhibits the view of relationship between theories.
c. It is a learning process that motivates you to obtain knowledge or information about
people, things, places, or events.
d. It is a process that asks broad questions and collects word data from phenomena or
participants.
2. Which is NOT an approach of quantitative research?
a. Answers Why? How? c. Various tools, instruments employed
b. Answers How many? When? Where? d. Typically a probability-based sample
3. Which is an assumption of quantitative research?
a. Reality is socially constructed
b. Variables are measured with existing tools
c. Variables are complex, interwoven and difficult to measure
d. Relationships between variables are generally described as observed patterns or cases
4. The following highlights the essence of of quantitative research EXCEPT:
a. It is useful in obtaining objective understanding of people, places, and events in this world.
b. Attaching accurate or exact meanings to objects or subjects.
c. Effective method to obtain information about specified personality traits of a group.
d. Inflated meanings resulting from the researcher’s bias or personal attachment to things
related to the research.
5. Which is NOT a characteristic of a quantitative research?
a. The data is usually gathered using structured research instruments.
b. The research study can usually be replicated or repeated, given its high reliability.
c. It describes the information in themes and patterns exclusive to that set of participants.
d. The results are based on larger sample sizes that are representative of the population.
6. What type of research treats or deals with the object or subject in a definite or exact manner
and determines the extent of the effects or influence of the treatment, then discovers the
causes of such effects?
 a. Descriptive Research c. Experimental Research
b. Correlational Research d. Explanatory Research
7. Which of the following method is NOT applicable in a quantitative research?
a. Collection of empirical data c. Illustrates patterns and describes variables
b. Modeling and analysis of data d. Experimental control and manipulation of variables
8. Which practice is not considered as a strength of quantitative research?
a. Allows for greater objectivity and accuracy of results.
b. Uses a static and rigid approach and so employs an inflexible process of discovery.
c. Allows for a broader study, involving a greater number of subjects, and enhancing the
generalization of the results
d. Personal bias can be avoided by keeping a 'distance' from participating subjects and
using accepted computational techniques.
9. Which of the following skills is developed in an inquiry-based learning?
a. Creative thinking c. Integrative thinking skills
b. Inferential thinking skills d. All of the above
10. How does a qualitative research differ from a quantitative research?
a. Qualitative and Quantitative research are both systematically done
b. Qualitative study describes the information in themes and patterns while Quantitative
study variables are measured with existing tools
c. Qualitative and Quantitative research can both entails the collection of numerical data and
exhibits the view of relationship between theories
d. Qualitative study develops and employs mathematical models, theories and/or hypotheses
pertaining to phenomena while Quantitative study develops themes and pattern to create
theories.
III.A. DISCUSSION OF CONCEPTS
NATURE OF INQUIRY AND RESEARCH

Inquiry-Based Learning
What is Inquiry? Inquiry is a learning process that motivates you to obtain knowledge or
information about people, things, places, or events. (Baraceros,2016)
It requires you to collect data, meaning, facts, and information about the object of your
inquiry, and examine such data carefully. On other hand, in your analysis, you execute varied
thinking strategies that range from lower-order to higher-order thinking skills such as inferential,
critical, integrative, creative thinking.
QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH is defined by Bryman and Bell (2005, p. 154) that ‘entailing the
collection of numerical data and exhibiting the view of relationship between theory and research
as deductive, a predilection for natural science approach, and as having an objectivist conception
of social reality’.

QUALITATIVE RESEARCH, on the other hand, asks broad questions and collects word data from
phenomena or participants. The researcher looks for themes and describes the information in
themes and patterns exclusive to that set of participants. "
This research method is used to:
 describe variables;
 examine relationships among variables;
 determine cause-and-effect interactions between variables.' (Burns & Grove 2005:23)
 Quantitative research is generally made using scientific methods, which can include:
 The generation of models, theories and hypotheses
 The development of instruments and methods for measurement
 Experimental control and manipulation of variables
 Collection of empirical data
 Modeling and analysis of data

Qualitative Quantitative
(Usually) Non-probability based sample Typically a probability-based sample

Non-generalizable Generalizable

RESEARCH Answers Why? How? Answers How many? When? Where?

APPROACHES Formative, earlier phases Tests hypotheses, latter phases

Data are “rich” and time-consuming to analyze Data are more efficient, but may miss contextual detail

Design may emerge as study unfolds Design decided in advance

Researcher is the instrument Various tools, instruments employed

Qualitative Quantitative
Reality is socially constructed Social facts have an objective reality

Primacy of subject Primacy of method

RESEARCH
Variables are complex, interwoven and difficult to Variables are measured with existing tools
ASSUMPTIONS measure

Relationships between variables are generally Relationships between variables can be assessed
described as observed patterns or cases using standard statistics

CHARACTERISTICS OF QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH

 The data is usually gathered using structured research instruments.
 The results are based on larger sample sizes that are representative of the population.
 The research study can usually be replicated or repeated, given its high reliability.
 Researcher has a clearly defined research question to which objective answers are sought.
 All aspects of the study are carefully designed before data is collected.
 Data are in the form of numbers and statistics, often arranged in tables, charts, figures, or other
non-textual forms.
 Project can be used to generalize concepts more widely, predict future results, or investigate
causal relationships.
 Researcher uses tools, such as questionnaires or computer software, to collect numerical data.

STRENGTHS OF QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH

 Allows for a broader study, involving a greater number of subjects, and enhancing the
generalization of the results;
 Allows for greater objectivity and accuracy of results. Generally, quantitative methods are
designed to provide summaries of data that support generalizations about the phenomenon
under study. In order to accomplish this, quantitative research usually involves few variables
and many cases, and employs prescribed procedures to ensure validity and reliability;
 Applying well-established standards means that the research can be replicated, and then
analyzed and compared with similar studies;
 You can summarize vast sources of information and make comparisons across categories and
overtime; and,
 Personal bias can be avoided by keeping a 'distance' from participating subjects and using
accepted computational techniques.
WEAKNESSES OF QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH
 Quantitative data is more efficient and able to test hypotheses, but may miss contextual detail;
 Uses a static and rigid approach and so employs an inflexible process of discovery;
 The development of standard questions by researchers can lead to "structural bias" and false
representation, where the data actually reflects the view of the researcher instead of the
participating subject;
 Results provide less detail on behavior, attitudes, and motivation;
 Researcher may collect a much narrower and sometimes superficial dataset;
 Results are limited as they provide numerical descriptions rather than detailed narrative and
generally, provide less elaborate accounts of human perception;
 The research is often carried out in an unnatural, artificial environment so that a level of control
can be applied to the exercise. This level of control might not normally be in place in the real
world thus yielding "laboratory results" as opposed to "real world results"; and,
 Preset answers will not necessarily reflect how people really feel about a subject and, in some
cases, might just be the closest match to the preconceived hypothesis.

KINDS OF QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH

1. Causal-comparative research attempts to determine the cause or consequences of
differences that already exist between or among groups of individuals.
Examples: a. Female and male employees and their job satisfaction
b. Gender causes on differences in abilities
2. Correlational research determines the extent of a relationship between two or more
variables using statistical data.
Examples: a. Relationship between intelligence and friendliness
b. Student’s hours of study and their stress level
3. Descriptive research provides systematic information about a phenomenon.
Examples: a. The attitudes of scientists regarding global warming
b. Impacts of Qatari diplomatic crisis on OFWs
4. Evaluation research provide a means to judge actions and activities in terms of values,
criteria and standards
Examples: a. Performance of newly-hired SH teachers in MMC for S.Y. 2017-2018
b. Water quality assessment of Boac River
5. Experimental research uses the scientific method to establish the cause-effect relationship
among a group of variables
Examples: a. Levels of heavy metal bioaccumulation of Nypa fruticans from Boac River
b. Solar purification for water potability
6. A survey is a brief interview or discussion with individuals about a specific topic
Examples: a. Acceptance of Boakenos to Boac cityhood
b. Approval rate for Duterte Cabinet members
III.B. DEVELOPMENTAL ACTIVITIES

Activity 1. Identify whether the given description is a characteristic of a Quantitative Research or

Qualitative Research.
1. Data is in the form of words, pictures or objects.
2. The data is usually gathered using structured research instruments.
3. It is not based upon numerical measurements and does not use numbers and statistical
methods as key research indicators and tools.
5. It tends to be associated with small-scale studies and a holistic perspective, often
studying a single occurrence or small number of occurrences/case studies in great depth.
6. The research study can usually be replicated or repeated, given its high reliability.
7. Data are in the form of numbers and statistics, often arranged in tables, charts, figures,
or other non-textual forms.
9. It describes the information in themes and patterns exclusive to that set of participants.
10. The results are based on larger sample sizes that are representative of the population.
11. It tends to be associated with emergent research design, using a wide range of
approaches.
13. Researcher has a clearly defined research question to which objective answers are
sought.

Activity 2. Give at least 5 strengths of quantitative research

1. _________________________________________
2. _________________________________________
3. _________________________________________
4. _________________________________________
5. _________________________________________

Activity 3. Identify what is described.

1. The research that attempts to determine the cause or consequences of differences that
already exist between or among groups of individuals.
2. A research that provides systematic information about a phenomenon.
3. It is a research that determines the extent of a relationship between two or more variables
using statistical data.
4. It is a research that uses the scientific method to establish the cause-effect relationship
among a group of variables
5. A research that provide a means to judge actions and activities in terms of values, criteria
and standards

IV. POST-TEST. Choose the letter that corresponds to the best answer.
1. The importance of quantitative research across different discipline lies greatly in the creation of
results that should reflect exact measurement and in a thorough analysis of data. Statements
given below emphasize the essentiality of quantitative research excluding:
a. It is useful in obtaining objective understanding of people, places, and events in this world.
b. Attaching accurate or exact meanings to objects or subjects.
c. Effective method to obtain information about specified personality traits of a group.
 d. Inflated meanings resulting from the researcher’s bias or personal attachment to things
related to the research.
2. What type of Quantitative research determines the extent of a relationship between two or
more variables using statistical data?
a. Descriptive Research c. Evaluation Research
b. Correlational Research d. Experimental Research
3. Which is not a quantitative research?
a. Causal-comparative research c. Experimental research
b. Descriptive research d. Historical Research
4. Which approach is used in quantitative research?
a. Answers Why? How? c. Uses a non-probability-based sample
b. Design may emerge as study unfolds d. Typically a probability-based sample
5. Which is an assumption of Quantitative research?
a. Reality is socially constructed
b. Variables are measured with existing tools
c. Variables are complex, interwoven and difficult to measure
d. Relationships between variables are generally described as observed patterns or cases
6. Which is NOT a characteristic of a quantitative research?
a. Data are exclusive to that set of participants. c. Samples are larger
b. Highly reliable and replicable d. Uses structured research instruments
7. Which statement is NOT TRUE about quantitative research?
a. It is replicable
b. It is empirical research where the data are not in the form of numbers
c. Studies can be analyzed in terms of numbers
d. It is based more directly on its original plans and its results are more readily analyzed and
interpreted
8. Which of the following method IS NOT applicable in a quantitative research?
a. Collection of empirical data c. Illustrates patterns and describes variables
b. Modeling and analysis of data d. Experimental control and manipulation of variables
9. What is the similarity between qualitative and quantitative research?
a. Qualitative and Quantitative research are both systematically done.
b. Qualitative and Quantitative study uses numerical data to describes the information in
themes and patterns with existing tools
c. Qualitative and Quantitative research can both entails the collection of numerical data and
exhibits the view of relationship between theories
d. Qualitative study develops and employs mathematical models, theories and/or hypotheses
pertaining to phenomena while Quantitative study develops themes and pattern to create
theories.
10. Which is NOT a strength of quantitative research?
a. Allows for greater objectivity and accuracy of results.
b. Personal bias can be avoided by keeping a 'distance' from participating subjects and using
accepted computational techniques.
c. Allows for a broader study, involving a greater number of subjects, and enhancing the
generalization of the results
d. Results are limited as they provide numerical descriptions rather than detailed narrative and
generally, provide less elaborate accounts of human perception
V. ANSWER KEY:

Item No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
I. PRE-TEST C A B D C C C B D B
IV. POST-TEST D B D D B A B C A D

III.B. DEVELOPMENTAL ACTIVITIES

Activity 1.
1. Qualitative 3. Qualitative 5. Quantitative 7. Qualitative 9. Qualitative
2. Quantitative 4. Qualitative 6. Quantitative 8. Quantitative 10. Quantitative

Activity 2. Strengths of Quantitative research

1. Allows for a broader study, involving a greater number of subjects, and enhancing the
generalization of the results.
2. Allows for greater objectivity and accuracy of results.
3. Applying well-established standards means that the research can be replicated, and then
analyzed and compared with similar studies.
4. Can summarize a vast source of information and make comparisons across categories and
overtime.
5. Personal bias can be avoided by keeping a 'distance' from participating subjects and using
accepted computational techniques.

Activity 3
1. Causal-comparative 3. Correlational 5. Evaluation
2. Descriptive 4. Experimental

REFERENCES
https://cirt.gcu.edu/blogs/quantitative-methods/characteristics-of-quantitative-research
https://research-methodology.net/research-methods/quantitative-research/