Quantitative Research Theory Essay Example for Free

Quantitative Research Theory Essay The purpose of the quantitative method is used when measuring the incidence of multiple views and opinions in a singular chosen sample and how it may be used in nursing practice. The quantitative method is often followed by the qualitative method, used to observe further findings. Its objective is to appraise data and conclude results from sample populations of interest. Quantitative methods highlight the importance on objective measures and numerical analysis of data gathered through questionnaires, surveys, and/or surveys. This method of researching focuses on collecting numerical information and generalizing the data across groups of individuals. Quantitative research is an objective, formal, rigorous, systematic process for creating numerical data in regards to the world. The quantitative method of conducting research is often used to describe new situations, events, or concepts and determine the effectiveness of treatments in the world. There are four types of quantitative research methods such as: descriptive research, correlation research, quasi-experimental research, and experimental research. Quantitative research is necessary in developing knowledge vital for evidence-based nursing practices. Conducting quantitative research requires rigor and control. Rigorous research provides credibility and worth. When collecting data disciplined techniques much like on-street interviews, online questionnaires, or telephone interviews should be used. Sampling sizes typically occur when using larger numbers of cases representing populations of interest, randomly selected respondents. Findings of statistical data are conclusive and definitive typically descriptive in its nature. Things to keep in mind when utilizing the quantitative method and reporting the results of a study. An explanation of the statistical treatment and data collected as relevant results are produced coinciding to the research issue under investigation. Chronologically log all unanticipated events that take place during the data collecting stage. Provide an explanation of the techniques used to gather and present v alid and credible data information. Select a sufficient  statistical procedure; provide an account for the selected use and references for such. Describe assumptions for all research procedures and the efforts taken to ensure that they haven’t been violated. If using presumed statistics, descriptive statistics should be provided, confidence intervals, and sample sizes for each variable to include the value of test statistics, the direction, the significance level, and the degrees of freedom. When avoiding the use of inferring causality in particular non-randomized designs or without additional experimentation. The use of tables to provide exact value uses figures conveying global effects. In quantitative research, the objective is to determine the connection between two things, the independent and dependent variable in populations. Its designs are either descriptive or experimental. The descriptive design subjects are typically measured once, whereas experimental subjects are measured before and after treatment. The descriptive study creates associations only between variables. The experimental design, however, establi shes causality. The main characteristics are to classify features, construct statistical models, and count them in an attempt to detail what has occurred and what is observed. The research deals in logic and the objective, numbers, focusing on logic, unchanging static data and detailed, convergent reasoning as oppose to divergent reasoning. Once data has been collected in the quantitative research method, decisions must be made on how the use of information gathered can be altered to offer recommendations. Individuals compare primary focuses on basic quantitative and qualitative methodologies; qualitative methodologies investigate categories and themes of collected input, while quantitative methodologies confirm validity and reliability of the gathered statistics. The objective of this form of research is to populate gaps with knowledge. This nature of knowing is referenced often as ontology versus epistemology. Ontology is in regards to the world’s existence and in what form. Epistemology is simply described as how you know what you know. In ontological quantitative methods, an altered reality occurs in which it can be measured and appreciated to a certain degree of efficiency. In epistemology quantitative research, the process is done through objective observations and measurements. Methodology research is subjective to various ethical implications. Aside from the element of deception that is included, individuals involved in a controlled group may  have a disadvantage when the outcome of treatment or interventions is unclear or believed to be underlying to existing regimens. There are ethical considerations dependent on the form of study. In example, if a study is done on evaluating the effectiveness of an epinephrine auto-injector. It would be unethical to withhold or deny interventions for individuals within the controlled group. The ethics of methodology research demands careful assessments of the benefits and risks that may occur and that information is gathered and delivered to participants during the process of gathering informed consent. A generalized guideline is viewed as â€Å"the degree of risk to be taken by those participating in the research should never exceed the potential humanitarian benefits of the knowledge to be gained†. In conclusion, the quantitative method measures the incidence of multiple views and opinions in a singular chosen sample. The quantitative method is sometimes followed by the qualitative research, which is used to observe further findings. The method of researching focuses on collecting numerical information and generalizing the data across groups of individuals. Reference Babbie, Earl R (2010). The Practice of Social Research. Retrieved from:http://libguides.usc.edu/content.php?pid=83009sid=615867 Glesne, C. (2006). Becoming qualitative researchers: An introduction (3rd ed.). Retrieved from:http://www.nursingcenter.com/lnc/journalarticle?Article_ID=737387 Polit, D.F., Hungler, B.P. (1999) Nursing Research: Principles and Methods (6th ed).Philadelphia: J.B. Lippincott. Snap Surveys (2014). Qualitative vs Quantitative Research. Retrieved from:http://www.snapsurveys.com/qualitative-quantitative-research/