Liceo de Cagayan

University
Senior High School
Department-Main
Campus
RNP Blvd. Kauswagan, Cag. de Oro
S.Y. 2022-2023

Full Name: Gerry Luke R. Gaid__________

Section: G12 – STEM 21___
Practical Research 2 Teacher: Sir Erneil Ghrizcer Ecle
Date: 9/21/23________
Score: ___________________

PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2
ACTIVITY NO. 1

NATURE OF INQUIRY AND RESEARCH

(INDEPENDENT LEARNING ACTIVITY)

Directions: Answer the following questions and write your best answer.
Learning Competencies:
1. Describes characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, and kinds of quantitative research.
2. Illustrates the importance of quantitative research across fields
3. Differentiates kinds of variables and their uses

A. Define Quantitative Research. This type of research typically involves large sample sizes
and uses structured data collection methods, such as surveys, experiments, or observations, to
gather information.

B. Enumerate the Characteristics of Quantitative Research. Objective and measurable:

Quantitative research focuses on obtaining objective and measurable data that can be
analyzed statistically. It aims to provide precise and reliable numerical results.

Large sample size: Quantitative research usually involves a large number of participants or a
representative sample to ensure the results are statistically significant and can be generalized
to the larger population.

Structured data collection: It relies on structured data collection methods, such as surveys,
experiments, or observations, to gather information systematically. This allows for
standardization and consistency in data collection.

Statistical analysis: Quantitative research employs statistical techniques to analyze the

collected data. This includes descriptive statistics (e.g., means, frequencies) and inferential
statistics (e.g., correlations, regression analysis) to identify patterns, relationships, and make
predictions.

Deductive approach: It often follows a deductive approach, where a theory or hypothesis is

formulated before data collection, and the research aims to test or confirm the hypothesis
through data analysis.

Generalizability: Due to the emphasis on large sample sizes and random sampling,
quantitative research aims to produce findings that are generalizable to the larger population
from which the sample was drawn.

Replication: Quantitative research emphasizes the importance of replication and

reproducibility. By following standardized methods and statistical analysis, other researchers
can replicate the study to validate or challenge the results.

Control over variables: It often involves tight control over variables to isolate and
manipulate specific factors under investigation. This control helps establish cause-effect
relationships between variables.

Objective and unbiased: Quantitative research strives to be objective and unbiased. It

focuses on collecting verifiable data and reducing researcher biases and subjectivity in data
interpretation.

Numeric representation: The results of quantitative research are typically presented in the
form of numbers, charts, graphs, or tables, allowing for clear and concise presentation of
findings.

C. List down the types of Quantitative Research. types of quantitative research methods that
can be applied depending on the research objectives and data collection approach.
1. Survey research
2. Experimental research
3. Quasi-experimental research
4. Longitudinal research
5. Correlational research

D. Enumerate the Strengths and Weaknesses of Quantitative Research

Strengths -
Objectivity: Quantitative research aims to be objective and unbiased.
The use of standardized data collection methods and statistical
analysis reduces the potential for researcher bias.

Precision and reliability: The numerical nature of quantitative data

allows for precise measurement and analysis. This enhances the
reliability of the results and facilitates replication of the study.

Generalizability: With large sample sizes and random sampling

techniques, quantitative research can produce findings that are
generalizable to the larger population from which the sample was
drawn.

Statistical analysis: Quantitative research utilizes statistical

techniques to examine relationships, patterns, and trends in the data.
This provides a robust and rigorous approach to analyzing data and
drawing conclusions.

Cause-and-effect relationships: Through experimental designs,

quantitative research can establish cause-and-effect relationships
between variables by manipulating and controlling independent
variables.

Weaknesses -
Lack of context: Quantitative research often focuses on numerical
data, which may miss the rich contextual information about a
phenomenon. It may not capture the complexity and nuances of
certain research topics.

Limited understanding of individual experiences: Quantitative

research may not fully capture the subjective experiences, emotions,
and personal perspectives of individuals being studied. It tends to
prioritize quantitative measures over qualitative insights.

Potential for reductionism: The emphasis on numerical data and

statistical analysis can oversimplify phenomena by reducing them to
quantifiable variables. It may overlook important non-quantifiable
aspects of a research topic.

Constraint on exploring unexpected findings: Quantitative research

often relies on predetermined hypotheses and data collection methods.
This can limit the ability to explore unexpected or unanticipated
findings that may emerge during the research process.

Ethical considerations: Some research questions in quantitative

research may involve ethical issues and limitations in terms of
privacy, confidentiality, and informed consent. Care must be taken to
ensure participants’ rights and ethical guidelines are followed.

E. Why use Quantitative Research? Quantitative research is used for

several reasons due to its unique advantages and suitability for
specific research objectives.

F. Explain the importance of quantitative research to the following fields;

a. Education - It is paramount for researchers to acquire the necessary
knowledge and skills to design, analyze, interpret, and communicate
quantitative research findings accurately and ethically. It provides the
foundation for conducting robust and valid research that contributes to
the advancement of knowledge in various fields.
 b. Business - Quantitative research is essential for businesses as it helps in collecting
reliable data, analyzing trends, making evidence-based decisions, and improving overall
performance and competitiveness in the marketplace.
c. Social Sciences – They are mutually beneficial as they allow for a systematic and
evidence-based understanding of human behavior and society. By employing quantitative
methods, social scientists can collect and analyze data on a large scale, identify patterns
and relationships, and contribute valuable insights to inform policies and decision-
making processes.
d. Healthcare and Medical Field - It enables researchers to generate robust evidence,
evaluate interventions, measure outcomes, identify disparities, and inform policy
decisions. By utilizing quantitative methods, healthcare professionals can improve patient
care, enhance population health, and advance medical knowledge to benefit individuals
and communities.
e. Technology - It provides the tools, platforms, and infrastructure needed for efficient
data collection, analysis, simulation, and collaboration. By harnessing technological
advancements, researchers can conduct more comprehensive and accurate quantitative
studies, leading to improved insights, problem-solving, and advancements in various
disciplines.
f. Natural Sciences - natural sciences and quantitative research are intertwined, with
quantitative methods providing the means to collect and analyze data, formulate
hypotheses, test theories, build models, and make predictions. The rigorous and objective
nature of quantitative research enhances our understanding of natural phenomena,
leading to scientific discoveries and advancements that have far-reaching implications
across various disciplines.

G. Differentiate Qualitative Research to Quantitative Research.

These two distinct approaches used in research, and they differ in their methods, data
collection techniques, data analysis, and the type of data they aim to generate. It is also
important to note that qualitative and quantitative research approaches have unique strengths
and limitations. Researchers often choose the appropriate approach based on the research
objective, research question, and the nature of the research topic. Sometimes, researchers
combine qualitative and quantitative methods in mixed methods research to gain a more
comprehensive understanding of a phenomenon.

H. Define Research Variables - Research variables are the characteristics or properties that
are measured, observed, or manipulated in a research study. They are the key elements that
researchers investigate to understand their relationship, impact, or effect on a particular
phenomenon or outcome. Variables can be broadly categorized into independent variables,
dependent variables, and control variables.

I. Define the following terms;

a. Quantitative Variables - also known as numeric variables, are variables that
represent measurable quantities or numerical values. These variables are expressed
in terms of numbers and can be further categorized as either discrete or continuous.

b. Categorical Variables - referred to as qualitative or nominal variables, represent

characteristics or qualities that can be divided into distinct categories or groups.
These variables do not have numerical values and are typically represented by
labels or names.
c. Experimental Variables - Experimental variables are variables that are deliberately
manipulated or controlled by researchers in an experimental study. They are
typically the independent variables being tested to determine their effect on the
dependent variable.
In an experiment, researchers manipulate and control the experimental variable to
observe how it influences the outcome or dependent variable.

J. Complete the table

below.
Liceo de Cagayan
University
Senior High School
Department-Main Campus
RNP Blvd. Kauswagan, Cag. de Oro
S.Y. 2022-2023
Types of Variables Classification Description Examples

1. Discrete A variable that can It cannot be Number of

Variables only take on measured with children in a
specific precision. family, Number of
values/countable cars in a parking
values. lot

2. Continuous A variable that can It can be measured Height, Weight,

Variables take on any value with precision. Temperature
within a certain
range.

3. Dichotomous A variable with It cannot be Yes/No,

Variables only two possible measured with True/False,
outcomes/levels. precision. Male/Female

4. Nominal A variable that uses It cannot be Colors (Red, Blue,

Variables categories to measured with Green), Marital
represent precision. Status (Single,
differences but does Married,
not have a specific Divorced)
order.

5. Ordinal A variable that uses It cannot be The rating of a

Variables categories to measured with movie (1 star, 2
represent precision. stars, 3 stars),
differences with a Economic status
specific order or (Low, Medium,
 ranking. High)

6. Interval A variable that has Zero represents a Temperature

Variables a specific order and specific point, but measured in
a consistent interval ratios are not Celsius, Years
between meaningful. (2010, 2011, 2012)

7. Ratio A variable that has Zero represents Height, Weight,

Variables a specific order, a absence of the Income
consistent interval variable.
between values, and
meaningful ratios.

8. Independent A variable that is It is presumed to Treatment type,

Variables manipulated or have an effect on Instruction method
controlled by the the dependent
researcher in an variable.
experiment.

9. Dependent A variable that is It is expected to be Test scores,

Variables observed or affected by the Reaction time
measured in an independent
experiment. variable.

10. Control A variable that is It cannot be Time,

Variables held constant or measured with Environment
controlled in an precision. conditions
experiment to
prevent its
influence on the
dependent variable.

11. Confounding A variable that is It cannot be Participant age,

Variables not the primary measured with Gender
focus of the study precision.
but can influence
the relationship
between the
independent and
dependent
variables.