Quantitative research is a research strategy that focuses on quantifying the collection and analysis of data. It is a systematic process in which numerical data are used to quantify or measure social phenomena and produce findings. This research strategy promotes the objective empirical investigation of observable phenomena to test and understand relationships. It is formed from a deductive approach where emphasis is placed on the testing of theory, shaped by empiricist and positivist philosophies. Quantitative research is widely used in the natural and social sciences, such as biology, chemistry, psychology, economics, sociology, marketing, and others.
Quantitative research involves collecting and analyzing numerical data to describe characteristics, find correlations, or test hypotheses. It can be used to find patterns and averages, make predictions, test causal relationships, and generalize results to wider populations. Quantitative research methods can be used for descriptive, correlational, or experimental research. In descriptive research, you simply seek an overall summary of your study variables. In correlational research, you investigate relationships between your study variables. In experimental research, you systematically examine whether there is a cause-and-effect relationship between variables.
Quantitative research is not always the most appropriate or effective method to use in certain situations. For example, it may not be suitable when exploring in-depth or complex topics, studying subjective experiences and personal opinions, conducting exploratory research, or studying sensitive or controversial topics.
In summary, quantitative research is a research strategy that focuses on quantifying the collection and analysis of numerical data to test and understand relationships. It is widely used in the natural and social sciences and can be used for descriptive, correlational, or experimental research. However, it may not be suitable for certain situations.
