Four Types of Quantitative Research

1) Descriptive Research- aims to define the existing condition of a classified variable. It

is intended to offer methodical data or systematic information about a phenomenon. It
does not usually start with a hypothesis but rather after systematic data gathering
since the test of hypothesis comes from data analysis. Gathering of data necessitates
thorough selection not only of the units studied but the measurement of each variable
as well.
Example:
1. A description of how senior high school students celebrate their birthdays
2. A description of how parents feel about the K to 12 Curriculum

2. Correlational Research- the degree of relationship between two or more variables

using statistical data. It seeks to interpret the relationship between and among a number
of facts and distinguishes tendencies and patterns in data, but does not go so far in
analysis to prove causes for these observed patterns. Moreover, the data, relationships,
and distributions variables are identified only in a natural setting and not in a
manipulated one.

Example:
1. The relationship between successful career and educational attainment
2. The relationship between high grades and having tutors

3. Causal Comparative/Quasi-Experimental Research-It endeavors to ascertain

cause-effect relationship among variables. This type of research is very similar to true
experiments but with key dissimilarities such as (a) an independent variable is identified
but not manipulated and (b) the effects of the independent variable on the dependent
variables are measured. You do not randomly assign groups but rather use those that
are naturally formed or preexisting. The recognized control groups exposed to the
treatment variable are compared to groups who are not.
In arriving at conclusions, establishing causes must be done prudently, as other
variables, both known and unknown, could still affect the outcome. 

Example:
1. The effect of studying in Catholic schools on the moral value system of those
who graduate from these schools
2. The effect of exercising regularly to body witness

4) Experimental (Empirical) Research-it is usually termed as true experimentation.

It applies the scientific method to prove “the cause-effect relationship among a group
of variables that make up a study. The true experiment is also considered as a
“laboratory study”, yet this is not most of the time the situation because a laboratory
setting may not be necessary.
Characteristics of a True Experiment

a. Any study where an effort is made to identify and impose control over all
other variables except one.
b. An independent variable which is manipulated to determine its effects on
the dependent variables
c. Subjects that are randomly assigned to experimental treatments rather
than identified in naturally occurring groups.

Example:
1. The effect of positive reinforcement on one’s attitude to excel in school
2. The effect of peer counseling and support group on a student’s
emotional condition