Quantitative research focuses on numbers. Quantitative analysis aims to find patterns, links, and predictions in the data set. The research may aim to answer a question or test a hypothesis or prediction. There are different types of quantitative research. For example:
- Descriptive which is an overall summary of the variables.
- Correlational which determines the relationship between variables).
- Experimental which examines if there are any cause-and-effect relationships between the variables).
Quantitative research has many strengths including:
- The ability to repeat the study by standard methods and definitions of concepts.
- It enables comparisons between results.
- Quantitative research allows you to work with large sample sizes.
- The thorough process which considers the variables and the affect on the results before drawing a conclusion.
Examples of quantitative research include:
- Statistical analysis
- Surveys
Examples of quantitative research in kidney disease:
- An international Delphi survey helped develop consensus-based core outcome domains for trials in peritoneal dialysis.
- Range and Consistency of Outcomes Reported in Randomized Trials Conducted in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review