Designing Strong Research Objectives and Questions: A Practical Framework

Abstract

Quantitative research objectives typically refer towards quantifying, measuring and analysing data to answer specific research questions. They are meant to determine the associations and relationships between variables in a study. They assess the occurrence and frequency of certain phenomena and compare populations or groups on varied measures. In addition, they test hypotheses and draw predictions statistically. They are further intended to explore trends and patterns within collected data and examine the impact of variables on outcomes. To make the research objectives forceful it is recommended that they should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-specific and clear keeping in view the scope of the study. On the other hand, quantitative research questions are intended to gather numerical data to obtain answers to stated questions or hypotheses. They typically involve measurement and the construction of relationships among variables. Research questions in the quantitative study must be clear, complex, specific, and measurable and can be answered within a specific time frame. They must ensure the collection of numerical data on which statistical methods can be employed to draw findings or conclusions. They typically involve population and variables and their relationship.