Quantitative Research Flashcards
Why quantitative research?
Quantitative research allows us to see general patterns, the broad outlines and relations
Cross-sectional research
In which observations are made or measured once and at the same time
Longitudinal Research
In which at least two measurements, that represent different moments
* prospective (future, observe outcome)
* retrospective
Types of sampling
- random
- systematic
- stratified
- cluster
- convenience
Operationalization
translatingnan abstract theoretical concept into a measurable variable
Three categories presented in the lecture
Quantitative Research
- survey research
- experimental research
- secondary research
Survey Research
A systematic data collection method
* systematic interrogation of a group of people
* describe characteristics of the group
Experimental research
collect data from test subjects in a controlled situation in order to test a hypothesis
example: the stanford prison experiment
Methods
survey research
- written (post) survey
- telephone survey
- face to face survey
- internet survey
Secondary research
an analysis of existing data files
ex. cbs statistics
Validity vs. Reliability
Validitiy measure what you intend to measure
Reliability measure accurately
Two main types of validity
- external - ability to generalize
- internal - conclusion justified
The social construction of numbers
The social construction of numbers refers to the idea that numerical data and statistics are not purely objective truths but are influenced by social processes, cultural norms, and human decisions.
This concept suggests that the way numbers are created, interpreted, and used is shaped by the context in which they arise, including the goals, values, and biases of the people and institutions involved.
As a result, numbers can reflect and reinforce social realities, rather than just representing neutral facts.
