Senior High School

NOT

PRACTICAL
RESEARCH 2
Quarter 1 - Module 1
Nature of Inquiry and Research

Department of Education ● Republic of the Philippines

Practical Research 2- Grade 12
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Quarter 1– Module 1: Nature of Inquiry and Research
First Edition, 2020

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 Senior High School

Practical
Research 2
Quarter 1 - Module 1
Nature of Inquiry and Research

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 What I Need to Know

At the end of this module, you should be able to:

1. Describe the characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, and kinds of quantitative
research (CS_RS12-Ia-c-1);
2. Illustrate the importance of quantitative research across field (CS_RS12-Ia-c-2);
3. Differentiate the kinds of variables and their uses (CS_RS12-Ia-c-3);

v
 Lesson
Introduction to
1 Quantitative Research

What’s In

Practical Research I introduced you to the two main classifications of research

methods: quantitative and qualitative. You have learned that qualitative research is more of
describing a phenomenon in a narrative; hence, the data collected can be in the form of words,
images, or transcripts taken from a small sample, not generalizable to the population.
Choosing a small sample size makes room for in-depth data collection and interpretation. In
this lesson, you will learn about quantitative analysis, a more formal, objective, and systematic
approach to obtaining answers to a question or problem of the study.

What I Need to Know

Vital to the conduct of a quantitative research project is a deep understanding of its

characteristics. When you know its strengths and different classifications, you will be able to
identify what kind of questions you should ask and what approach is most suited to find
answers to these questions. The identification of its weaknesses on the other hand, aids in
recognizing the questions or topics that are inappropriate to this course. At the end of this
lesson, you will have a good grasp of what is quantitative research that will prepare you in
crafting a good research study and instrumental to building lifelong skills.

What Is It

Quantitative Research
You have learned from Practical Research 1 that research method is classified into
two main types: quantitative and qualitative. While both methods utilize a specific data
gathering procedure, the former is generally concerned with understanding phenomenon
relating to or involving quality or kind. The latter, on the other hand, is based on the
measurement or quantity. In this module, we will focus on quantitative methods of research
and what are its different kinds.

Quantitative research uses scientifically collected and statistically analyzed data to

investigate observable phenomena. A phenomenon is any existing or observable fact or
situation that we want to unearth further or understand. It is scientific for the fact that it uses
a scientific method in designing and collecting numerical data. Once data is collected, it will
undergo statistical analysis like Pearson’s r, t-test and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) for
analysis. Since data is analyzed statistically, it is imperative that the data obtained must be
numerical and quantifiable, hence its name quantitative research.
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 Numerical data are generally easier to collect than descriptions or phrases used in
qualitative research. Information like student’s grades in different subjects, number of hours of
engagement in social media platforms of teens, percentage of consumers who prefer the color
blue for soap packaging, average daily Covid-19 patient recovery per region are just few
examples of research data expressed in numbers. Some data on the other hand, are not
directly countable and thus require conversion from non-numerical information into numerical
information. For instance, determining which brand of canned sardines is the best choice for
consumers in terms of taste cannot be expressed in numbers unless we do a survey using a
rating scale. Several forms of rating scales are available, e.g., the Likert scale that we can use
to quantify data. Usually, they come in a selection of numbers with a corresponding meaning
for each choice, for example: 1= tastes very good, 2 = satisfactory, or 3 = undesirable.
Numerical choices convert texts into numbers so the researcher can perform mathematical
operations for faster, more accurate, and more objective analysis.

Characteristics of Quantitative Research

Quantitative research is commonly used in natural sciences research problems

because of the following characteristics:

1. LARGE SAMPLE SIZE. To obtain more meaningful statistical result, the data must
come from a large sample size.

2. OBJECTIVE. Data gathering and analysis of results are done accurately, objectively,
and are unaffected by the researcher’s intuition and personal guesses.

3. VISUAL RESULT PRESENTATION. Data is numerical, which makes presentation

through graphs, charts, and tables possible and for better conveyance and
interpretation.

4. FASTER DATA ANALYSIS. The use of a statistical tools give way for a less time-
consuming data analysis.

5. GENERALIZED DATA. Data taken from a sample can be applied to the population if
sampling is done accordingly, i.e., sufficient size and random samples were taken.

6. FAST DATA COLLECTION. Depending on the type of data needed, collection can be
quick and easy. Quantitative research uses standardized research instruments that
allow the researcher to collect data from a large sample size efficiently. For instance,
a single survey form can be administered simultaneously to collect various measurable
characteristics like age, gender, socio-economic status, etc.

7. RELIABLE DATA. Data is taken and analyzed objectively from a sample as a

representative of the population, making it more credible and reliable for policymaking
and decision making.

8. REPLICATION. The Quantitative method can be repeated to verify findings enhancing

its validity, free from false or immature conclusions.

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Strengths of Quantitative Research

The following are the strengths of quantitative research.

1. Quantitative research can be replicated or repeated.
2. Findings are generalizable to the population.
3. Conclusive establishment of cause and effect
4. Fast and easy data analysis using statistical software.
5. Fast and easy data gathering
6. Very objective
7. Validity and reliability can be established

Weaknesses of Quantitative Research

The following are the disadvantages of quantitative research:

1. It lacks the necessary data to explore a problem or concept in depth.
2. It does not provide comprehensive explanation of human experiences.
3. Some information cannot be described by numerical data such as feelings, and beliefs.
4. The research design is rigid and not very flexible.
5. The participants are limited to choose only from the given responses.
6. The respondents may tend to provide inaccurate responses.
7. A Large sample size makes data collection more costly.

Kinds of Quantitative Research

Quantitative research is a broad spectrum that it can be classified into smaller and
more specific kinds: descriptive, correlational, ex post facto, quasi-experimental, and
experimental.

Descriptive design is used to describe a particular phenomenon by observing it as it occurs

in nature. There is no experimental manipulation and the researcher does not start with a
hypothesis. The goal of descriptive research is only to describe the person or object of the
study. An example of descriptive research design is “the determination of the different kinds
of physical activities and how often high school students do it during the quarantine period.”

The correlational design identifies the relationship between variables. Data is collected by
observation since it does not consider the cause and effect for example, the relationship
between the amount of physical activity done and student academic achievement.

Ex post facto design is used to investigate a possible relationship between previous events
and present conditions. The term “Ex post facto”, means after the fact, looks at the possible
causes of an already occurring phenomenon. Just like the first two, there is no experimental
manipulation in this design. An example of this is “how does the parent’s academic
achievement affect the children obesity?”

A quasi-experimental design is used to establish the cause and effect relationship of

variables. Although it resembles the experimental design, the quasi-experimental has lesser
validity due to the absence of random selection and assignment of subjects. Here, the
independent variable is identified but not manipulated. The researcher does not modify pre-
existing groups of subjects. The group exposed to treatment (experimental) is compared to
the group unexposed to treatment (control): example, the effects of unemployment on attitude
towards following safety protocol in ECQ declared areas.

Experimental design like quasi- experimental is used to establish the cause and effect
relationship of two or more variables. This design provides a more conclusive result because
it uses random assignment of subjects and experimental manipulations. For example, a
comparison of the effects of various blended learning to the reading comprehension of
elementary pupils.
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 Importance of Quantitative
Research Across Fields

What’s In

You have learned from Lesson 1 that quantitative research is a formal, deductive, and
systematic process that focuses mainly on obtaining and analyzing numerical data. The
method of data collection is objective and replicable. At the same time, its analysis is statistical
and generalizable to the population making the findings of quantitative research very credible
and useful for administrators, law makers, scientists, decision-makers and business owners.
It is for these reasons that quantitative analysis can be applied and very useful to various fields
of study. In this lesson, you will uncover the role of quantitative research in the advancement
of knowledge across disciplines.

Key Question: How is quantitative research applicable across fields?

What I Need to Know

People indulge in research to know more, to solve problems, or to improve existing
conditions. More and more institutions promote research studies while younger individuals
indulge in research projects not only because they are required to but also because they came
to realize the value and benefits research has to offer. The quantitative research’s systematic
way of finding the answers forges its pertinence regardless of the area or sector. The more
you perceive the value of quantitative research to different groups or field of study, the more
you appreciate it, hence, igniting your interest from knowing that you may make use of it in
your own chosen track.

8
What Is It

Importance of Quantitative Research Across Fields

The value of quantitative research to man’s quest to discover the unknown and
improve underlying conditions is undeniable. Throughout history, quantitative research has
paved the way to finding meaningful solutions to difficulties. For instance, the development of
vaccines to strengthen our immunity against viruses causing highly communicable diseases
like polio, influenza, chickenpox, and measles to name a few, underwent thorough
experimental trials. You bet, scientists and medical experts all over the world today are
working their best to fast track the development, testing and release of the vaccine for the
Corona Virus Disease of 2019 (Covid-19) as the pandemic has critically affected the world
economy, education, as well as physical and emotional well-being of people.

The findings of the quantitative study can influence leaders and law-makers’ decisions
for crafting and implementing laws for the safety and welfare of the more significant majority.
For example, a community with high cases of Covid-19 positive patients is mandated by law
to be under Enhanced Community Quarantine where only the most essential businesses can
operate. On the other hand, cities with less or zero case will be under General Community
Quarantine where some businesses, public and private offices are already allowed to operate.

Using quantitative design helps us determine and better understand relationships

between variables or phenomenon crucial to reducing the range of uncertainty because the
mathematics (more of this in the last module) behind quantitative studies helps us make close
estimates of the outcome (dependent variable) from a given condition/s (independent
variable). Relationship between demand and supply, age and health, discipline and academic
achievement, practice and winning at sports, depression and suicidal rates, algae population
and Oxygen demand are just a few examples of real-life applications of correlation studies in
the past that we still apply today.

Most inventions and innovations are products of quantitative studies. Before you can
enjoy the uses and features of a smart phone, it took years of research to establish compliance
to standards for interoperability, to find the most cost-effective raw materials, identify the
sleekest and sturdiest design, the fastest data saving and processing power, and most
marketable add-ons according to consumer needs. Indeed, mankind will dwell in the darkness
of ignorance if not for the people who conducted their research before reading about it from
books or manuals.

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 The table below shows some of the contributions of quantitative research to other fields
and their example.

Field Contribution/Application Example

Social Science • Effects of intervention to group The effects of pandemicon
behavior. social behavior and
• Understanding cultural or racial economic stability.
conflicts.
• Human satisfaction and
stressors
Natural and Physical • Investigate the effectiveness of Antidiabetic properties of
Sciences a product or treatment to common Philippine herbs.
illnesses.
• Finding or enhancing alternative
energy sources.
• Advancement in material
science.
Agriculture and • Increase the yield of crops The effectiveness of
Fisheries • Prevention and cure for crops organic and inorganic
and livestock diseases fertilizer to vegetable
production.
Sports • Enhance athletic performance Diet and exercise
techniques for different
kinds of sports.
Business • Device marketing strategies Effectiveness of Facebook
• Improve marketability ads on sales.
Arts and Design • Relationship between color and The effects of music on
architectural space learning and behavior.
• Multimedia use and adaptation
for recreation, business
marketing and lifestyle changes.
Environmental Science • Causes and effects of climate The environmental factors
change affecting natural calamities

10
 Variables in
Quantitative Research

What’s In

You have learned from the previous lessons that quantitative research is concerned
about numerical or measurable values that we can analyze statistically. How do we measure
such values? Is it measurable at all times? Do these values change? Are these values
applicable for descriptive, correlational, ex post facto, quasi-experimental and experimental
research? In this lesson, you will learn about the different classifications of data used in
quantitative research and their examples.

What I Need to Know

Variables play a significant role in quantitative research. When you intend to

accomplish something through research, the boundaries of your goal must be defined first to
direct your focus into a specific characteristic or condition through identifying the variables of
your research study. Doing such eliminates complexities and elaborate work especially for a
senior high school student like you. Knowing the different kinds of research variables also aids
in smooth data collection and analysis.

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 What Is It

In order to get an answer to an inquiry that they are investigating, researchers will
observe and measure the quality or quantity of the object of the study. It is therefore imperative
for the researcher to identify the variables significant in explaining observed effects or
behavior.

A Variable is anything that has a quantity or quality that varies. For instance, during
the quarantine period, your mother planted tomato seedlings in pots. Now common
understanding from science tells you that several factors are affecting the growth of tomatoes:
sunlight, water, kind of soil, and nutrients in soil. How fast the tomato seedlings will grow and
bear fruits will depend on these factors. The growth of tomatoes and the number of fruits
produced are examples of the Dependent Variables. The amount of sunlight, water, and
nutrients in the soil are the Independent Variables. If there is an existing relationship between
the independent and dependent variables, then the value of the dependent variable varies in
response to the manipulation done on the independent variable. The independent variable is
also identified as the presumed cause while the dependent variable is the presumed effect. In
an experimental quantitative design, the independent variable is pre-defined and manipulated
by the researcher while the dependent variable is observed and measured. For descriptive,
correlational and ex post facto quantitative research designs, independent and dependent
variables simply do not apply.

It is important to note other factors that may influence the outcome (dependent
variable) which are not manipulated or pre-defined by the researcher. These factors are called
Extraneous Variables. In our example above, the presence of pests and environmental
stressors (e.g. pets, extreme weather) are the extraneous variables. Since extraneous
variables may affect the result of the experiment, it is crucial for the researcher to identify them
prior to conducting the experiment and control them in such a way that they do not threaten
the internal validity (i.e. accurate conclusion) of the result. Controlling the extraneous
variable can be done by holding it constant or distribute its effect across the treatment. When
the researcher fails to control the extraneous variable that it caused considerable effect to the
outcome, the extraneous variable becomes a Confounding Variable. For example, if the
tomato had been infested by pests (confounding variable) then you cannot conclude that
manipulations in sunlight, water and soil nutrients (independent variable) are the only
contributing factors for the stunted growth and poor yield (dependent variable) of the plant or
is it the result of both the independent variables and the confounding variable.

The variables can also be classified according to their nature. The diagram below
shows the different classifications:

VARIABLE

QUANTITATIVE QUALITATIVE
(NUMERICAL) (CATEGORICAL)

DISCREET CONTINUOUS NOMINAL ORDINAL DICHOTOMOUS

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 Quantitative Variables, also called numerical variables are the type of variables used in
quantitative research because they are numeric and can be measured. Under this category
are discrete and continuous variables.

A. Discrete variables are countable whole numbers. It does not take negative values or
values between fixed points. For example: number of students in a class, group size
and frequency.
B. Continuous variables take fractional (non-whole number) values that can either be a
positive or a negative. Example: height, temperature.

Numerical data have two levels of measurement, namely:

A. Interval are quantitative variables where the interval or differences between

consecutive values are equal and meaningful but the numbers are arbitrary. For
example, the difference between 36 degrees and 37 degrees is the same as between
100 degrees and 101 degrees. The zero point does not suggest the absence of a
property being measured. Temperature at 0 degree Celsius is assigned as the melting
point of ice. Other examples of interval data would be year and IQ score.

B. Ratio type of data is similar to interval, the only difference is the presence of a true
zero value. The zero point in this scale indicates the absence of the quantity being
measured. Examples are age, height, weight and distance.

II. Qualitative Variables are also referred to as Categorical Variables are not expressed in
numbers but are descriptions or categories. It can be further divided into nominal, ordinal
or dichotomous.

C. Dichotomous are consisting of only two distinct categories or values. For example, a
response to a question either be a yes or no.

D. Nominal variable simply defines groups of subjects. Here you may have more than 2
categories of equivalent magnitude. For example, a basketball player’s number is used
to distinguish him from other players. It certainly does not follow that player 10 is better
than player 8. Other examples are blood type, hair color and mode of transportation.

E. Ordinal variable, from the name itself denotes that a variable is ranked in a certain
order. This variable can have a qualitative or quantitative attribute. For example, a
survey questionnaire may have a numerical rating as choices like 1, 2, 3, 4, 5ranked
accordingly (5=highest, 1=lowest) or categorical rating like strongly agree, agree,
neutral, disagree and strongly disagree. Other examples or ordinal variable: cancer
stage (Stage I, Stage II, Stage III), Spotify Top 20 hits, academic honors (with highest,
with high, with honors)

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Summary

• Quantitative research uses scientifically collected and statistically analyzed data to

investigate observable phenomena.
• Characteristics of quantitative research are (1) Large sample size, (2) Objective, (3)
Visual result presentation, (4) Faster data analysis, (5) Generalized data, (6) Fast data
collection, (7) Reliable data, and (8) Replication.
• Kinds of quantitative research are (1) Descriptive, (2) Correlational, (3) Ex post facto
design, (4) quasi-experimental, and (5) experimental.
• Types of Variables: (1) Independent, (2) Dependent, (3) Extraneous, (4) Continuous,

References

Barrot, Jessie S. Practical Research 2 for Senior High School. Quezon City, Philippines: C &
E Publishing, Inc., 2017.

Caintic, Helen, E. and Cruz, Juanita, M. Scientific Research Manual. C&E Publishing, 2018.

CIRT: Center for Innovation in Research and Teaching. no date. " An Overview of Quantitative
Research." Grand Canyon University. Accessed June 1, 2020. https://bit.ly/2LUP3ye

I Hope. 2019. " Quantitative Research: It’s Characteristics and Strenghts." YouTube.
Accessed June 3, 2020. https://bit.ly/2LWH6bR

"Introduction to Quantitative Research." SAGE Publication. Accessed June 1, 2020.

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