Description: Quantitative techniques in research are methods that involve the use of numerical data to analyze phenomena and answer research questions. These techniques are based on the collection and analysis of measurable data, allowing researchers to establish patterns, relationships, and trends through statistics. The main characteristics of quantitative techniques include objectivity, replicability, and the ability to generalize results from representative samples. These techniques are fundamental in various disciplines, such as psychology, sociology, economics, and public health, as they provide a rigorous framework for hypothesis evaluation and informed decision-making. By using statistical tools, researchers can transform data into meaningful information, facilitating the interpretation of results and the formulation of evidence-based conclusions. In summary, quantitative techniques are essential for scientific research, as they enable a systematic and structured analysis of data, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in multiple fields.
History: Quantitative techniques have their roots in the development of statistics in the 18th century, with significant contributions from mathematicians such as Pierre-Simon Laplace and Carl Friedrich Gauss. Throughout the 19th century, statistics solidified as a scientific discipline, and its application in social sciences began to gain traction. In the 20th century, the rise of social research and psychology led to the widespread adoption of quantitative methods, especially with the introduction of surveys and controlled experiments. The computer revolution in the late 20th century further facilitated the analysis of large data sets, allowing researchers to apply quantitative techniques more efficiently and effectively.
Uses: Quantitative techniques are used in a variety of fields, including market research, public health, education, and psychology. In market research, surveys are employed to measure customer satisfaction and consumer preferences. In public health, they are used to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and health programs. In education, they allow for the analysis of student academic performance through standardized tests. In psychology, they are applied to study behaviors and attitudes through experiments and structured questionnaires.
Examples: An example of a quantitative technique is the use of surveys to collect data on public opinion in elections. Another example is the statistical analysis of health data to determine the relationship between tobacco use and respiratory diseases. In the educational field, standardized tests can be used to measure student academic performance in different subjects.
