2. Module: QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH DESIGNS

Cross-disciplinary quantitative research designs serve as powerful instruments for expanding knowledge. They offer clear and systematic methodologies for studying, assessing, and analysing complex phenomena. This Module is a theoretical and practical guide for researchers conducting quantitative designs, ultimately leading to rigorous, evidence-based research that propels scientific knowledge forward and addresses academic real-world needs.

This course aims to cultivate skills in quantitative research methods, from their philosophical underpinnings to their practical applications. The Module is organized into four segments based on categories in quantitative research, which will facilitate focus and understanding.

Part 1: Principles of Quantitative Research Designs 

This part explains the fundamentals underlying quantitative research. It explores its philosophical underpinnings, where theoretical constructs come from, and how to formulate and test theories. It also provides a step-by-step guide to preparing a research project.

Part 2: Elements of Quantitative Research Designs 

Here, we explore some key building blocks of a good research design. It also covers writing straightforward research questions, defining and measuring variables, and constructing hypotheses. It will also give practical how-tos on sampling, data collection, and measurement scales to equip beginners or experienced researchers for solid study design.

Part 3: Types of Quantitative Research Designs 

This section discusses the key types of quantitative research design, including descriptive, correlational, experimental, and quasi-experimental designs. Researchers can find their goals, methods, assumptions, and other comparisons to choose the right one for their study.

Part 4: Advantages and Disadvantages of Quantitative Research Designs 

Moreover, the Module finally examines what is right with quantitative research and where it often goes wrong. We discuss key concepts such as objectivity, reliability, validity, and generalizability. This section also includes tips for overcoming challenges and improving the quality of a quantitative research project.

By the end of this Module, researchers should have acquired the concepts and methodologies needed to select and implement the quantitative research strategy best suited to their subject of study.

By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

- Understand the fundamentals of Quantitative Research Designs

- Identify and know their Components

- Develop self-awareness of their different Types

- Be aware of their strengths and limitations

- Make informed decisions about which design is best suited for each Research Question

Course Content

The purpose of this chapter is to provide a comprehensive examination of quantitative research designs.

These designs are crucial in empirical studies as they provide a systematic way of collecting and evaluating data.

The chapter explores the different types of quantitative research designs commonly used in social sciences research.

It analyses each design's characteristics, advantages, and drawbacks, allowing researchers to decide which design best suits their study.

Additionally, it discusses the critical factors to consider when selecting and implementing quantitative designs.

It also offers practical advice on conducting research using quantitative methods.

José Manuel Carvalho Vieira (PhD)

Maia University (Portugal)

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