Pagadian Diocesan Schools

SACRED HEART DIOCESAN SCHOOL, INC.

Molave, Zamboanga del Sur

SELF-PACED LEARNING MODULE IN PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2

Student’s Name: Grade & Section:

Student’s Contact #: Name of Teacher: JULIEN B. CABRERA
Date of Submission: Teacher’s Contact #: 09704497253

QTR. 1 - MODULE 1 (LESSON 1) Introduction to Quantitative Research

Module Overview:
Vital to the conduct of a quantitative research project is a deep understanding of its characteristics. When you
know its strengths and different classifications, you will be able to identify what kind of questions you should ask
and what approach is most suited to find answers to these questions. The identification of its weaknesses on the other
hand, aids in recognizing the questions or topics that are inappropriate to this course. At the end of this lesson, you will
have a good grasp of what is quantitative research that will prepare you in crafting a good research study and instrumental
to building lifelong skills.

Learning Competency: At the end of this module, you can:

1. Describe the characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, and kinds of quantitative research (CS_RS12-Ia-c-1).
2. Illustrate the importance of quantitative research across field (CS_RS12-Ia-c-2);
3. Differentiate the kinds of variables and their uses (CS_RS12-Ia-c-3);

Instructional Materials:
1. Sibs Publishing House, Practical Research 2 by Ador R. Torneo , pages 2-22

Values: Perseverance and Compassion.

Pre–assessment
Before going further, let’s find out how much you already know about this module by answering the short test
below. Remember of the items that you are not sure of the correct answer and look for the right answer as you go
through this module.
Directions: Read the following questions below and choose the letter that corresponds to the correct answer. Write it on
the space provided before each item.

_______1. Which of the following statements is NOT a characteristic of quantitative research?

A. The results taken from a sample can be generalized to the population.
B. It delivers an in-depth understanding of the problem or study.
C. It provides a more credible and reliable result.
D. Statistical analysis of numerical data.

_______2. In an experiment, which group does not receive intervention?

A. The treatment group B. The participant group C. The control group D. The experimental group

_______3. Which of the following research questions could be answered by using quantitative research methods?
A. What is the most popular social media platform used by Senior High School students?
B. How has the Covid-19 pandemic affect career choices among college students?
C. What are the factors affecting depressive behavior?
D. None of the above.

_______4. Which statement below illustrates a weakness of quantitative research?

A. The responses of the participants are limited to what has been asked and the choices given.
B. The researcher's perspective can influence interpretation of results.
C. Data gathering takes too much time.
D. Low degree of subjectivity

_______5. Which of the following is NOT a strength of quantitative research?

A. Speedy data analysis B. Less expensive C. Replicable D. Objective
 INTRODUCTION

Let’s begin our journey by giving your brain a warm-up activity!

Directions: Group the following word clues if they are characteristics of Quantitative Research (Box A) or Qualitative
Research (Box B).
1. Measurable 6. Text-based 11. Subjective
2. Behaviour 7. Intervention 12. Small sample
3. Statistical 8. Experimental group 13. Tables and charts
4. Narrative 9. Unstructured observation 14. Deductive
5. Objective 10. Inductive 15. Generalizable

A. Quantitative Research B. Qualitative Research

Let’s try to find out how many of your initial ideas are valid and correct by doing the next set of activities. As you
learn in the next section, go over your answers in the previous section and compare your initial ideas with your
learned concepts.

INTERACTION
SECTION 1 Overview of Quantitative Research
This section provides an overview of quantitative
research and covers ...
 Definition and characteristics of quantitative
research.
 Types of quantitative research.
 Features of quantitative research
 Strengths and weaknesses of quantitative
research
Quantitative research may be defined as the
systematic empirical investigation of social phenomena
using tools of mathematics and statistics. The term
"quantitative" emphasizes that this type of research
involves quantification or measurement and usually
involves numbers. The term empirical means that this
type of research is concerned with things or
characteristics that are observable. The term "social
phenomena" emphasizes that it is concerned with people,
their communities, their organizations, and even their
behavior. Quantitative research was originally used in
the natural sciences but was later adopted in the social
sciences.
Quantitative research uses quantitative methods and
these terms are often used interchangeably. Quantitative
methods pertain to the various quantitative techniques
for the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data.
One of the most popular techniques for collecting
quantitative data are through the use of surveys.
Descriptive statistics and interpretative statistics on the
other hand are commonly used for analyzing data.
Many of the numerical information that we
encounter in our lives are actually products of
quantitative research. In politics, we learn about the
relative standing of candidates for the presidency, vice
presidency, and the senate during elections from the
surveys of private polling companies such as the Social
Weather Stations and Pulse Asia. As well, we learn
about the state of the economy and indicators such as
employment from the studies of the Philippine Statistical
Authority (PSA), a government agency. Similarly,
organizations like the United Nations use quantitative
research to monitor development and poverty across the
globe.
Quantitative research has many applications. It is
very useful when we want to measure or evaluate
something or when we are looking for numerical
answers to complex questions. It is used for testing
theories, models, or hypotheses. It is also useful when
we want to develop quantitative models that can be used
to project or predict future events based on past events or
scenarios. Quantitative research is widely used in
education, economics, business, management, political
science, sociology, psychology, public policy, and other
disciplines.
FEATURES OF QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH
Quantitative research is differentiated from
qualitative research by: (1) the kinds of research
problems it addresses; (2) its philosophical
underpinnings; (3) its adoption of the scientific method;
and (4) its deductive orientation. The logical steps for
doing a research project using a quantitative approach
differs from a qualitative approach. We will go through
these features of quantitative research briefly.
Measurement and quantitative research
The quantitative research approach is best for
addressing research problems or questions that require
quantification or measurement. It is most suitable for
investigating human, social, behavioral, or
organizational aspects or characteristics that can be
measured. For example, you are interested in studying
demographic groups. Certain traits can be empirically
observed, measured, and represented using a number--a
group of 18 year olds; pupils in Grade 11; self-employed
people who earn PHP 20,000/month.
However, not all aspects or characteristics of people
can be easily quantified. For example, a person's
experiences, dreams, insights, feelings, or thoughts
cannot easily be measured. Nevertheless, personal and
social phenomena are still legitimate topics for research,
but these are better investigated and analyzed using
qualitative research approaches.
Empiricism and Positivism: The philosophies of
quantitative research
Most quantitative researchers subscribe to a
philosophy called positivism. In positivism, authoritative
knowledge is believed to come from empirical
observation and the use of logic. The job of the
quantitative researcher is to discover the patterns,
frameworks, and laws that govern social phenomena
through objective, careful, and systematic observation
and verification. Many quantitative researchers also
believe in empiricism. What cannot be observed using
the five senses cannot be reasonably studied. Thus, such
researchers promote objective investigation as t provides
a common reference for evaluating data or evidence.
TYPES OF QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH
Quantitative methods can be used for different types
of research including: causal research, relational
research, comparative research, and experimental
research. The type of inquiry and the methods used to
analyze data differentiates the varied types of research.
Each is suitable for answering different types of
questions and accomplishing different objectives.
Descriptive Research
Descriptive research is generally concerned with
investigating, measuring, and describing one or more
aspects or characteristics of one or more groups,
communities, or phenomenon. It is useful in answering
research questions that deal with measurements, like
those that start with "How many...?", "How much...?",
"How often ...?", "How long ...?" and similar questions.
The subjects it deals with are complex and require
systematic research and measurement to be answered. It
is not applicable to questions dealing with subjects that
can easily be answered by a simple search, observation,
or computation.
For example, a grade school principal is interested
in understanding the study habits of students in the
different grade levels and sections within the school. She
might ask the homeroom teachers to survey the parents
of their pupils on how the pupils spend their time in a
typical week. Based on the answers, the principal can
learn about the average time that students in each section
and each grade level spends on homework, projects,
reviewing for classes, watching TV, playing computer
games, surfing the internet, and other activities. She can
then prepare a report and present this information to the
parents and teachers in her school, then make
recommendations based on her findings.
Correlational Research
Correlational research studies the relationship
between two or more characteristics of one or more
groups. It can verify or disprove a systematic
relationship between two characteristics or variables. A
positive relationship means that high values of one
variable correspond with high values of the other a
negative relationship means that high values of one
variable correspond with low values in the other.
For example, a grade school principal is interested to
know whether the time spent by pupils playing computer
games affects their grades. The principal can perform a
simple statistical test to determine whether there is a
significant relationship between the number of hours
spent by pupils playing computer games and the
quarterly grades of students in different subjects. A
positive relationship means that the more hours a pupil
spends computer games, the higher their grades become.
Conversely, a negative relationship means that the more
hours a pupil spends playing computer games, the lower
their grades become.
Causal-comparative Research
Causal-comparative research compares one or more
measurable characteristics of two or more groups to find
the similarities and the differences between them. The
result of a comparison can be used to generate insights
about the characteristics of both groups. As well, it can
be used to determine the possible underlying causes of
these similarities or differences.
For example, a principal might want to know why
students from two sections that have the same teachers at
the same grade level in the same school perform
differently. One section is performing well, while the
other is performing poorly. The teachers can collect
information about their socioeconomic background, their
study habits, diet, and other activities. Once the data is
collected, the information can be compared to see if
there are systematic differences between the two groups.
Once the differences between the two sections are
identified, they can proceed with investigating which
differences explain the variance in academic
performance.
Experimental Research
Social science experimental researches attempt to
approximate methods used in the natural sciences in
social settings. Researcher’s conducting experimental
research actively manipulate conditions or inputs to
observe outcomes. Experimental research, however, is
subject to more extensive ethical standards, especially
when the experiment may cause physical, mental,
psychological, or environmental harm.
For example, a physical education teacher wants to
know whether exercising in the morning three times a
week affects the length of sleep of pupils get at night.
The teacher invites 100 school pupils from the same
grade to participate 50 students exercise in the morning
for 45 minutes, three times a week. Another 50 students
do not exercise for one month. The pupils are asked to
record how many hours they sleep per night. After one
month, the two groups switch. The first group will not
exercise and the second group will do the same exercise.
Using data from this experiment, the teacher can
determine if morning exercise leads to longer sleep at
night.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Quantitative Research
Both qualitative and quantitative research methods
have their own distinct strengths, weaknesses, and
limitations. Which method is "better" is dependent on
the nature of the inquiry, the resources, and the
preferences of the researcher. To aid you, below is a list
of the strengths and weaknesses of quantitative methods.
1. Quantitative methods offer breadth. With enough
samples and data, it is easier to draw generalizable
conclusions using quantitative research methods
compared to single-case or small population studies
using Qualitative research methods.
2. Studies using quantitative research approaches are
generally easier to replicate compared to those that use
qualitative research. Furthermore, the results also tend to
be somewhat more consistent when the same data and
same methods are followed.
3. Communicating data, procedures, and results are
easier because the statistical terminologies, analytical
techniques, and procedures are generally consistent
across disciplines.
4. It is generally easier to summarize, describe, process,
and analyze large volumes of information when they are
in numerical form. Analysis can also be faster, especially
when spreadsheets or statistical software are used.
5. Quantitative research is better for projects where
objectivity is desired. This is because quantitative
methods are designed to minimize biases, influence, and
subjective interpretations of the researchers. In
comparison, qualitative research methods may embrace
subjectivity and accept the biases, worldviews and
experiences of the researcher as an integral part of the
research process.
On the other hand, quantitative research also has several
weaknesses and disadvantages.
1. Some aspects of people, human behavior, and
interactions are often difficult or impossible to measure.
Qualitative approaches help study these in greater detail.
2. Emphasis on generalizability and trends hinders the
deeper examination of nuanced factors that affect
specific cases, especially those that deviate from the
general trend.
3. Context and other information that provide a richer
understanding of observed trends and patterns can get
lost in the measurement and macro examination of data.
4. Errors in the measurement or modelling or the
omission of data can easily lead to the misinterpretation
of results.
5. Some tools utilized in this quantitative research (e.g.,
self-accomplished survey questionnaires) may yield
limited or even inaccurate information due to human
nature. For instance, some respondents may fill up the
questionnaire with what they believe is socially
desirable. Others may simply make errors in filling out
the questionnaire.
of engagement in social media platforms of teens,
percentage of consumers who prefer the
color blue for soap packaging, average daily Covid-19
patient recovery per region are just few
examples of research data expressed in numbers.
Some data on the other hand, are not
directly countable and thus require conversion from non-
numerical information into numerical
information. For instance, determining which brand of
canned sardines is the best choice for
consumers in terms of taste cannot be expressed in
numbers unless we do a survey using a
rating scale. Several forms of rating scales are available,
e.g., the Likert scale that we can use
to quantify data. Usually, they come in a selection of
numbers with a corresponding meaning
for each choice, for example: 1= tastes very good,
2 = satisfactory, or 3 = undesirable.
Numerical choices convert texts into numbers so the
researcher can perform mathematical
operations for faster, more accurate, and more objective
analysis.
Characteristics of Quantitative Research
Quantitative research is commonly used in natural
sciences research problems
because of the following characteristics:

1. LARGE SAMPLE SIZE. To obtain more
meaningful statistical result, the data must
come from a large sample size.
2. OBJECTIVE. Data gathering and analysis of
results are done accurately, objectively,
and are unaffected by the researcher’s intuition and
personal guesses.
3. VISUAL RESULT PRESENTATION. Data is
numerical, which makes presentation
through graphs, charts, and tables possible and for
better conveyance and
interpretation.
4. FASTER DATA ANALYSIS. The use of
statistical tools give way for a less time-
consuming data analysis.
5. GENERALIZED DATA. Data taken from a
sample can be applied to the population if
sampling is done accordingly, i.e., sufficient size and
random samples were taken.
6. FAST DATA COLLECTION. Depending on the
type of data needed, collection can be
quick and easy. Quantitative research uses
standardized research instruments that
allow the researcher to collect data from a large sample
size efficiently. For instance,
a single survey form can be administered simultaneously
to collect various measurable
characteristics like age, gender, socio-economic status,
etc.
obtained must be numerical and quantifiable, hence its
name quantitative research.
Numerical data are generally easier to collect than
descriptions or phrases used in qualitative research.
Information like student’s grades in different subjects,
number of hours of engagement in social media
platforms of teens, percentage of consumers who prefer
the color blue for soap packaging, average daily Covid-
19 patient recovery per region are just few examples of
research data expressed in numbers. Some data on the
other hand, are not directly countable and thus require
conversion from non-numerical information into
numerical information. For instance, determining which
a brand of canned sardines is the best choice for
consumers in terms of taste cannot be expressed in
numbers unless we do a survey using a rating scale.
Several forms of rating scales are available, e.g., the
Likert scale that we can use to quantify data. Usually,
they come in a selection of numbers with a
corresponding meaning for each choice, for example:
1= tastes very good, 2 = satisfactory, or 3 =
undesirable. Numerical choices convert texts into
numbers so the researcher can perform mathematical
operations for faster, more accurate, and more objective
analysis.
Characteristics of Quantitative Research
Quantitative research is commonly used in natural
sciences research problems because of the following
characteristics:

7. RELIABLE DATA. Data is taken and

analyzed objectively from a sample as a
representative of the population, making it more credible
and reliable for policymaking
and decision making.
8. REPLICATION. The Quantitative method can be
repeated to verify findings enhancing
its validity, free from false or immature conclusions.
You have learned from Practical Research 1 that
research method is classified into two main types:
quantitative and qualitative. While both methods
utilize a specific data gathering procedure, the
former is generally concerned with understanding
phenomenon relating to or involving quality or kind.
The latter, on the other hand, is based on the
measurement or quantity. In this module, we will focus
on quantitative methods of research and what are its
different kinds.
Quantitative research uses scientifically collected
and statistically analyzed data to investigate
observable phenomena. A phenomenon is any existing
or observable fact or situation that we want to unearth
further or understand. It is scientific for the fact that it
uses a scientific method in designing and collecting
numerical data. Once data is collected, it will undergo
statistical analysis like Pearson’s r, t-test and
Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) for analysis. Since
data is analyzed statistically, it is imperative that the data
1. LARGE SAMPLE SIZE. To obtain more
meaningful statistical result, the data must come from a
large sample size.
2. OBJECTIVE. Data gathering and analysis of results
are done accurately, objectively, and are unaffected by
the researcher’s intuition and personal guesses.
3. VISUAL RESULT PRESENTATION. Data is
numerical, which makes presentation through graphs,
charts, and tables possible and for better conveyance
and interpretation.
4. FASTER DATA ANALYSIS. The use of a statistical
tools give way for a less time-consuming data analysis.
5. GENERALIZED DATA. Data taken from a sample
can be applied to the population if sampling is done
accordingly, i.e., sufficient size and random samples
were taken.
6. FAST DATA COLLECTION. Depending on the
type of data needed, collection can be quick and easy.
Quantitative research uses standardized research
instruments that allow the researcher to collect data from
a large sample size efficiently. For instance, a single
survey form can be administered simultaneously to
collect various measurable characteristics like age,
gender, socio-economic status, etc.
7. RELIABLE DATA. Data is taken and analyzed
objectively from a sample as a representative of the
population, making it more credible and reliable for
policymaking and decision making.
8. REPLICATION. The Quantitative method can be
repeated to verify findings enhancing its validity, free
from false or immature conclusions.
Activity I
True or False
Directions: On the space provided, write TRUE if the statement describes quantitative research and
FALSE if it is incorrect.
_______1. Quantitative data can be presented using tables and graphs.
_______2. The results of quantitative research can be used to generalize and predict.
_______3. Quantitative research is flexible so at any stage, the study may change.
_______4. Quantitative data are more credible, reliable, and useful than qualitative data.
_______5. The research study cannot be replicated or repeated because it is unique in every case.
_______6. Data are in the form of numbers and analyzed statistically.
_______7. Data analysis is an on-going process. It can be done at any stage of the process.
_______8. The behavior of the participants is observed and is critical to the analysis of results.
_______9. Analysis of data is less time-consuming.
______10. In quantitative research, the researcher participates and engages the participants in the study.

Activity II
Yes or No
Direction: Write YES on the blank if the question requires for quantitative approach and NO if it does not.
__________1. Are high grades in Mathematics a good indicator for employment after graduation?
__________2. Will taking brain enhancers increase examination scores?
__________3. Are there changes in consumer behavior before and after online selling was popularized?
__________4. Do online learning materials enhance the computer skills of students?
__________5. Are there changes in the study habits of public school students before and after the Covid-19
pandemic?
__________6. What kind of pick-up lines are most appealing to both genders at the early adult stage?
__________7. Is there a difference in the academic performance of students using online, blended and modular
learning modalities?
__________8. Will student’s and parent’s attitudes towards distance learning change over time?
__________9. Which of the four SHS tracks (Academic, Tech-Voc, Sports, Arts & Design) is greatly affected
by the Covid-19 pandemic?
__________10. What are the factors affecting the delayed completion and submission of
assignments/tasks given to students using modular learning modality?

Processing Questions:
1. How do you develop a quantitative research question?
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2. How do you formulate a research question in qualitative research?

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INTEGRATION
Closure/ Synthesis
You have gone through so many activities, read and learned concepts. It’s time to put your ideas into
writing. So, let us know what’s in your mind so far.
Putting it Together!
Directions: Complete the statement below.

I have learned that

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 Reflection Guide:
Directions: Reflect and connect the Bible verse below to the research methods. Apply the values in your life as a student.
Write your thoughts below the Bible verse.
Romans 12:2
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern
what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
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INTERVENTION
Assignment
Directions: Study ten (10) different quantitative research titles and classify them as to which quantitative design
they belong.
RESEARCH TITLE QUANTITATIVE
RESEARCH DESIGN
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Evaluation
Directions: Write your learning about the following:
1. What is quantitative research?
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2. What are the characteristics of quantitative research?

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3. Discuss the strengths of quantitative research.

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4. Discuss the weaknesses of quantitative research.

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5. Describe each type of quantitative design and give one (1) example for each kind.

A. Descriptive design.
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B. Correlational design.
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C. Causal - comparative design.

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D. Experimental design.
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Congratulations! You have just learned so much about the introduction to Quantitative Research. I
hope the knowledge you have gained will remain and will be applied in real life situations and in the
future.