Key Elements of a Research Proposal Quantitative Design

Key Elements of a Research Proposal Quantitative Design

1. Descriptive research

   • It seeks to describe the current status of an identified variable. These research projects are designed to provide systematic information about a phenomenon.
     • Systematic collection of information requires careful selection of the units studied and careful measurement of each variable

2. Correlational research

   • It attempts to determine the extent of a relationship between two or more variables using statistical data. This type of research will recognize trends and patterns in data, but it does not go so far in its analysis to prove causes for these observed patterns.
     • The data, relationships, and distributions of variables are studied only. Variables are not manipulated; they are only identified and are studied as they occur in a natural setting.

3. Causal-comparative/quasi- experimental research

   • It attempts to establish cause- effect relationships among the variables. An independent variable is identified but not manipulated by the experimenter, and effects of the independent variable on the dependent variable are measured. Identified control groups exposed to the treatment variable are studied and compared to groups who are not.
     • When analyses and conclusions are made, determining causes must be done carefully, as other variables, both known and unknown, could still affect the outcome.

4. 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.
     • An independent variable is manipulated to determine the effects on the dependent variables. Subjects are randomly assigned to experimental treatments rather than identified in naturally occurring groups