Quantitative research is characterized by:

• A. Data expressed as numbers; objective; manipulation; hypothesis testing
• B. Narrative descriptions
• C. Observational diaries
• D. Focus groups

Answer: (A)

Quantitative research relies on data that are expressed as numbers, aiming for objectivity and the ability to measure and compare variables. It often involves manipulating an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable within a structured design that supports hypothesis testing and statistical analysis. The goal is to generate findings that can be generalized to a larger population through careful sampling and repeatable methods.

Narrative descriptions, observational diaries, and focus groups, by contrast, produce descriptive or experiential data in participants’ own words or non-numeric formats, emphasizing depth, meaning, and context rather than numerical measurement and statistical testing.