NL
06 May 2024
Quantitative research as a research approach for your thesis
When writing a thesis, you will be conducting research to address your main question and, potentially, the sub-questions you have formulated. However, at what point do you decide to use quantitative research?
What is quantitative research?
Quantitative research is a structured research approach that focuses on collecting and analyzing numerical data to identify patterns, relationships, and trends. Unlike qualitative research, which focuses on understanding complex phenomena through subjective experiences, quantitative research aims to quantify variables and draw objective conclusions. This type of research is especially suited for topics with extensive existing literature, as there is already an expectation about the research outcome, which can be tested through the collection of quantitative data.
What forms of quantitative research are there?
There are several forms of quantitative research, including:
- Survey research involves collecting data through standardized questionnaires administered to a sample of the population under study. These questionnaires can be administered in person, sent by mail, conducted by telephone, or completed online.
- Experimental research manipulates variables and measures the effects of these manipulations. The goal is to establish causal relationships between the independent and dependent variables.
- Longitudinal research follows a sample of the population over an extended period of time. Data is collected at multiple points in time to study changes over time.
- Quasi-experimental research is similar to experimental research, but researchers cannot randomly assign the independent variables to participants. Instead, they take advantage of existing groups or circumstances.
- Correlational research examines the degree of correlation between two or more variables, but no causal relationship is established.
What methods are available for quantitative research?
There are several methods that can be employed in quantitative research. One commonly used method involves using structured surveys, which utilize standardized questionnaires to gather data from a representative sample of the population. These surveys can be conducted both online and offline. Another approach is experimental research, in which the researcher has control over variables and can establish causal relationships by administering various treatments to participants and measuring the outcomes.
Step-by-step plan for conducting quantitative research
Do you want to conduct quantitative research? If so, you can follow our step-by-step plan:
- Start by formulating a clear research question that can be answered through quantitative research. This question must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
- Develop a research design (also called a research plan) that is suitable for answering your research question. Determine which method of data collection is most suitable for your research, such as surveys, experiments, or observations.
- Choose a representative sample of the population you want to study. Ensure that the sample is large enough to draw reliable conclusions.
- Implement the planned data collection method, whether it involves handing out surveys, conducting experiments, or observing participants.
- Analyze the collected data using statistical methods to identify patterns, relationships, and trends. Utilize software such as SPSS or Excel to analyze the data and conduct statistical tests.
- Draw conclusions based on the results of your analysis. Answer your research question and interpret the findings in light of existing literature and theoretical frameworks (discussion).
- Write a report or article presenting the results of your research or place the results in the results section of your thesis. Ensure that you are clear and concise, and include all necessary information to support your findings.
Want to get started with your quantitative research?
Quantitative research offers students the chance to derive objective and dependable conclusions by utilizing numerical data. Do you need assistance with setting up and conducting your quantitative research or writing your thesis? Our team of experienced thesis coaches is prepared to provide guidance. Reach out to us today for personalized thesis support and advice.
Getting started with your quantitative research?
Quantitative research allows students to draw objective conclusions from numerical data. Need help with setting up, conducting your research, or writing your thesis? Our team of professional thesis advisors is here to assist you. Contact us today for personalized thesis help and advice.
Contact Jouw Scriptiecoach if you need immediate help with your thesis.
Do you need immediate help with your thesis? Then request a free consultation now. During the consultation, we look at how best we can help you and which supervisor would be most suitable for your subject. You’ll also receive an immediate estimate of the number of hours we’ll need to get you across the finish line. Then you can easily purchase the hours online, and once the payment has gone through, we immediately connect you to your thesis supervisor. They’ll contact you quickly (often on the same day) so that you can get back to working on your thesis as soon as possible.