Chapter 5 - Quantitative Research

Question 1

What are the aims and reasons for quantitative research?

Answer 1

• To describe the world beyond an individual person’s experiences
• To gain knowledge applying to a population, beyond the individual or sample
• To demonstrate cause and effect
• To test ideas
• To enable predictions

Question 2

What are the research methods of quantitative research?

Answer 2

• Large sample size
• Collecting a small amount of information from each of a larger number people
• Preference for probability sampling methods to help ensure that participants in the study are similar to the wider population
• Proven accuracy and consistency of measurement are favoured
• Numerical data are analysed statistically to describe the sample.

Question 3

Define PICO

Answer 3

• Population
• Intervention
• Comparison
• Outcome

Question 4

What are the four levels of measurement?

Answer 4

Categorical:
- Nominal
- Ordinal
Continuous:
- Interval
- Ratio

Question 5

Define Nominal

Answer 5

• Yes/no answers
• People characteristics (e.g., gender, postcode, religion, student ID)
• NOT quantities or magnitude

Question 6

Define Ordinal

Answer 6

• Grades at University
• Medal levels in sport
• Differentiation (rich/poor)

Question 7

Define Interval

Answer 7

• Temperature
• Satisfaction (e.g., Likert scale)

Question 8

Define Ratio

Answer 8

• Physical measures
• Time
• Currency
• Correct questions on a test

Question 9

What is the Independent Variable in terms of studies

Answer 9

• Researcher controlled
• The independent variable refers to the treatment and control or placebo conditions.

Question 10

What is the Dependent Variable in terms of studies

Answer 10

• Researcher cannot control
• The dependent variable refers to the outcome measure, and could be categorical (e.g., patient’s condition improved or did not improve) or continuous (e.g., measures on a pain scale).

Question 11

What is the role of consistent and accurate measurement in quantitative research and healthcare?​

Answer 11

Consistency (Reliability):
- Refers to the ability to obtain the same results repeatedly under the same conditions. Reliable measures are crucial to ensure findings can be replicated.
Accuracy (Validity):
- Ensures the research tools measure what they are intended to measure.
- Validity is essential to ensure that the conclusions drawn from the data are meaningful and applicable.
Importance in Healthcare:
- Consistent and accurate measurements lead to valid and reliable data, which is critical for evidence-based practice.
- Helps in making informed healthcare decisions, predicting patient outcomes, and improving quality of care. Accurate data is also crucial for clinical trials, diagnostics, and treatment efficacy evaluation.

Question 12

What are the major quantitative research designs?​

Answer 12

Analytical Studies:
- Cohort study (exposure to outcome)
- Case controlled study (outcome to exposure)
- Cross-sectional study (exposure and outcome)

Descriptive Studies:
- Case report (1 patient)
- Case series (> 1 patient)
- Case study (1 person, group, event)
- Cross-sectional