A500.7.3.RB - Quantitative Research Reflection

            Quantitative research is about asking the why and seeking the answer to the questions about the research using humans to conduct surveying statistics. In order to conduct research, one should have an idea of what they are wanting to research, have a means to collect data and statistics through surveying a large number of people, and form an unbiased conclusion from the statistical reports.

            How does one begin the process of quantitative research? First, establish the question and the why? The researcher must identify the problem which they are seeking to understand. The next step is to begin reviewing literature about the topic to find supporting data. This may potentially broaden the topic to include more surveyors or narrow down the topic to minimize unnecessary information. Peer reviewed literature will provide a starting point for the researcher.

            The next step is to state the purpose of the research and to define the how the data will be collected, this is also known as, empirical research. In order to perform an interview with a large group of people, one must have questions prepared and reviewed; this will prevent miscommunication or flaws in the data. After the interview, the data must be reviewed and analyzed to determine if the research answered the empirical questions. Finally, the researcher will draw a conclusion from the data collected and determine if the survey answered the original question of why.

            Quantitative research has been a useful tool for our upcoming projecting by using the survey site. For my research, I used social networking in order to reach the maximum amount of people in a short time, due to submission dates. I found that people are willing to help and assist with research and their lack of awareness pertaining to the topic was a bonus. The participants were not able to prepare for the questions I provided, this provided raw knowledge for excellent feedback. I cannot see myself using quantitative research on a daily basis, however; it will be used as an excellent tool through school.