31. Introduction to Quantitative Research

About this lesson

Welcome to Module 3.1 of the Research Ethics Foundations series! In this session, we introduce the core concepts, characteristics, and applications of quantitative research, a foundational method in healthcare and evidence-based practice. Learn how numerical data, statistical analysis, and structured design contribute to high-quality, generalizable research outcomes.

What You’ll Learn in This Module

• What quantitative research is and how it works
• Key characteristics of quantitative research methods
• When and why to use quantitative approaches
• How data is collected, controlled, and analyzed in structured designs
• Applications in healthcare, epidemiology, and intervention evaluation

Topics Covered

What Is Quantitative Research?

• Numerical measurement of variables
• Objective, systematic, and statistical methods
• Generalization from samples to populations

Key Characteristics

• Deductive reasoning
• Structured research design
• Standardized data collection
• Variable control and statistical interpretation

When to Use Quantitative Methods

• Hypothesis testing and theory validation
• Measuring prevalence/incidence
• Establishing causality
• Evaluating interventions
• Producing generalizable findings

Who Should Watch This Video

• Public health and healthcare students
• Graduate researchers learning research methods
• Evidence-based practice professionals
• Anyone beginning a quantitative research project

Lesson notes

Full written notes for this lesson are in production. Until they publish, watch the video above and use the summary on this page as your study guide.