ABSTRACT
This chapter summarises the main features of quantitative research and associated methods of statistical analysis. Underlying assumptions of quantitative research, types of measurement and statistical procedures are illustrated by drawing on examples from the author’s longitudinal investigation of child-care. Measurement and statistical analysis are essential to quantitative designs. In most studies, data are summarised and analysed using computer software packages such as Statistical Package for the Social Sciences or Excel. Causation is not an essential component in quantitative research (many studies describe relationships without testing causal effects) but quantitative designs are required when the researcher seeks to establish causation. The type of assessment measures determines both the extent to which the data can be compared and the type of statistical analyses that can be applied to these comparisons. Multiple regression allows the researcher to statistically control for the effects of a number of alternate predictors while assessing the unique contribution of key variables.
