THE FOUR COMBINATIONS

THE FOUR COMBINATIONS

1. What are the main types of quantitative approaches to research?

   • the variables are not controlled at all and are only observed. Connections amongst variables are only described. At the other end of the spectrum, however, are designs that include a very close control of variables, and relationships amongst those variables are clearly established.

2. Types

   • The embedded design
     • The Embedded Design. The Embedded Design is a mixed methods design in which one data set provides a supportive, secondary role in a study based primarily on the other data type
       • Examples of Descriptive Research:
         • A description of how second-grade students spend their time during summer vacation
           • A description of the tobacco use habits of teenagers
   • Correlational research
     • attempts to determine the extent of a relationship between two or more variables using statistical data. In this type of design, relationships between and among a number of facts are sought and interpreted.
       • Examples of Correlational Research:
         • The relationship between intelligence and self-esteem
           • The relationship between diet and anxiety
   • Causal-comparative/quasiexperimental research
     • attempts to establish causeeffect relationships among the variables. These types of design are very similar to true experiments, but with some key differences. An independent variable is identified but not manipulated by the experimenter, and effects of the independent variable on the dependent variable are measured.
       • Examples of Correlational Research:
         • • The effect of preschool attendance on social maturity at the end of the first grade
           • The effect of taking multivitamins on a students’ school absenteeism
   • Experimental research
     • , often called true experimentation, uses the scientific method to establish the cause-effect relationship among a group of variables that make up a study. The true experiment is often thought of as a laboratory study, but this is not always the case; a laboratory setting has nothing to do with it.
       • Examples of Experimental Research:
         • The effect of a new treatment plan on breast cancer
           • The effect of teaching with a cooperative group strategy or a traditional lecture approach on students’ achievement