Quantitative Research Methods: Principles and Applications in Nursing

Question 1

In a cross-sectional research design, data is collected:

Accepted Answer

At a single point in time

Answer

Over time from the same participants

Answer

From participants based on exposure to a specific variable

Answer

To evaluate the effects of an intervention over time

Question 2

In quantitative research, which sampling method involves selecting participants based on specific traits or knowledge of the population, rather than randomly?

Accepted Answer

Purposive sampling

Answer

Simple random sampling

Answer

Systematic sampling

Answer

Cluster sampling

Question 3

In quantitative research, what is the primary reason for using a non-probability sampling method?

Accepted Answer

To save time and money

Answer

To accurately represent the entire population

Answer

To enhance the accuracy of the findings

Answer

To give every individual in the population an equal chance of being chosen

Question 4

In quantitative research, validity primarily refers to:

Accepted Answer

The accuracy of a research instrument in measuring what it intends to

Answer

The ability to replicate research results

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The applicability of research findings to various contexts or populations

Answer

The clarity and testability of a research question

Question 5

To accurately represent the population of nurses in a hospital, which sampling method should a researcher use to select participants for a study on job satisfaction?

Accepted Answer

Stratified sampling

Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Snowball sampling

Answer

Quota sampling

Question 6

Which sampling method does NOT ensure that every individual in the population has an equal chance of being chosen?

Accepted Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Simple random sampling

Answer

Systematic random sampling

Answer

Stratified sampling

Question 7

In a research study where the goal is to generalize findings to a larger population, which sampling method is most appropriate to ensure the sample accurately represents the population?

Accepted Answer

Random sampling

Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Snowball sampling

Answer

Quota sampling

Question 8

In quantitative research, which of the following is NOT a type of research design?

Accepted Answer

Qualitative design

Answer

Experimental design

Answer

Descriptive design

Answer

Correlational design

Question 9

Which approach is NOT considered legitimate in quantitative research designs?

Accepted Answer

Analyzing and interpreting qualitative data to gain insights

Answer

Investigating cause-and-effect relationships through controlled experiments

Answer

Observing and measuring a phenomenon or population without direct manipulation

Answer

Describing and summarizing the characteristics of a population or phenomenon

Question 10

In a non-probability sampling method where participants are chosen because they are easy to reach, what is the sampling method called?

Accepted Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Systematic sampling

Answer

Stratified sampling

Answer

Cluster sampling

Question 11

In non-probability sampling, researchers select participants based on their knowledge or convenience. Which of the following is an example of this type of sampling method?

Accepted Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Simple random sampling

Answer

Stratified sampling

Answer

Cluster sampling

Question 12

What is a primary advantage of using quantitative research methods?

Accepted Answer

Generalizable findings applicable to larger populations

Answer

Capture of intricate and subjective data

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Lower cost and time requirements compared to qualitative research

Answer

Exclusive capability for hypothesis testing

Question 13

Why is random sampling advantageous?

Accepted Answer

It gives every member of the population an equal chance of being chosen.

Accepted Answer

It reduces bias and improves the reliability of results.

Answer

It reduces the sample size needed.

Answer

It speeds up data collection.

Question 14

For a research study with a small population, which sampling method ensures an equal chance of selection for each participant?

Accepted Answer

Simple random sampling

Answer

Stratified sampling

Answer

Convenience sampling

Question 15

In quantitative research, which sampling method gives every potential participant in the population an equal opportunity to be chosen for the sample?

Accepted Answer

Probability sampling

Answer

Non-probability sampling

Answer

Systematic sampling

Question 16

Which of the following is not a type of quantitative research design?

Accepted Answer

Case study

Answer

Experimental design

Answer

Correlational design

Answer

Quasi-experimental design

Question 17

Which of the following is a probability sampling method commonly used in quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

Systematic sampling

Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Quota sampling

Answer

Snowball sampling

Question 18

In quantitative research, which sampling technique involves selecting participants based on their ease of access?

Accepted Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Simple random sampling

Answer

Stratified sampling

Answer

Cluster sampling

Question 19

Which research design type enables researchers to control and manipulate an independent variable to assess its potential influence on a dependent variable?

Accepted Answer

Experimental study

Answer

Observational study

Answer

Correlational study

Question 20

In quantitative research, which sampling method gives every individual in the population an equal chance of being chosen for the sample?

Accepted Answer

Simple random sampling

Answer

Purposive sampling

Answer

Snowball sampling

Question 21

In quantitative research, which data collection method involves presenting participants with a set of structured questions and recording their responses?

Accepted Answer

Survey

Answer

Focus Group

Answer

Interview

Answer

Experiment

Question 22

In quantitative research, which sampling method aims to select participants that accurately represent the characteristics of the entire population being studied?

Accepted Answer

Random sampling

Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Quota sampling

Answer

Systematic sampling

Question 23

Identify the sampling method that is NOT a type of probability sampling:

Accepted Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Simple random sampling

Answer

Systematic sampling

Question 24

In quantitative research, which data analysis method is most suitable for comparing the average values (means) of two separate groups?

Accepted Answer

Inferential statistics

Answer

Descriptive statistics

Answer

Qualitative data analysis

Answer

Meta-analysis

Question 25

In hypothesis testing, what's the main reason for creating a null hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

To set a baseline assumption to test the research hypothesis against.

Answer

To make a definite statement about the expected research findings.

Answer

To prove the research hypothesis is true.

Answer

To prevent Type II errors in the research study.

Question 26

Which of the following is NOT a commonly used probability sampling method in quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

Purposive sampling

Answer

Cluster sampling

Answer

Systematic sampling

Answer

Snowball sampling

Question 27

Which of the following is NOT a type of measurement scale used in quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

Bipolar

Answer

Nominal

Answer

Ordinal

Answer

Interval

Question 28

In a cohort study design, participants are primarily:

Accepted Answer

Followed over time to observe the occurrence of an outcome of interest.

Answer

Randomly assigned to different treatment groups to determine the effectiveness of an intervention.

Answer

Assessed at a single point in time to provide a snapshot of the population's characteristics.

Question 29

In hypothesis testing, the null hypothesis primarily serves which purpose?

Accepted Answer

Establishing a benchmark for assessing the statistical significance of research findings

Answer

Proposing a specific prediction about the relationship between variables

Question 30

In quantitative research, which of the following is a commonly used method for selecting a representative sample from a population?

Accepted Answer

Random sampling

Answer

Snowball sampling

Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Purposive sampling

Question 31

In quantitative research, which statistical test is used to compare the means of two independent groups?

Accepted Answer

T-test

Answer

Chi-square test

Answer

Analysis of variance (ANOVA)

Answer

Regression analysis

Question 32

In quantitative research, which data analysis technique is used to determine the relationship between two numerical variables?

Accepted Answer

Regression analysis

Answer

Factor analysis

Question 33

In quantitative research, what is a primary benefit of using a structured questionnaire?

Accepted Answer

Ensures consistency in data collection and analysis.

Answer

Enables participants to provide more detailed responses.

Answer

Reduces the time required for participants to complete.

Question 34

In quantitative research, which measurement scale consists of distinct categories that have no inherent order or ranking?

Accepted Answer

Nominal

Answer

Ordinal

Answer

Interval

Answer

Logarithmic

Question 35

What is a key advantage of using descriptive statistics in quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

Summarizing data clearly for better understanding

Answer

Making inferences about the population from a sample

Question 36

Which of the following is a non-probability sampling method?

Accepted Answer

Quota sampling

Answer

Simple random sampling

Question 37

Which principle is fundamental to designing a quantitative research study?

Accepted Answer

Employing random sampling to minimize bias and ensure representativeness

Answer

Using non-probability sampling to enhance data accuracy

Answer

Combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods

Answer

Designing the study without a clear research question or hypothesis

Question 38

In quantitative research, what is the key difference between reliability and validity?

Accepted Answer

Reliability measures consistency, while validity measures accuracy.

Answer

Validity measures consistency, while reliability measures accuracy.

Answer

Reliability and validity are the same, both measuring accuracy.

Answer

Reliability and validity are the same, both measuring consistency.

Question 39

What is a key advantage of using a mixed methods approach that combines quantitative and qualitative research methods?

Accepted Answer

Comprehensive conclusions through data triangulation

Answer

Enhanced generalizability of findings

Answer

Reduced time and resources needed for data collection

Answer

Eliminated requirement for statistical analysis

Question 40

To effectively communicate quantitative research findings, which strategy is crucial?

Accepted Answer

Presenting the findings in various formats, such as written reports, oral presentations, graphs, and tables.

Answer

Using only complex statistical jargon to convey the results.

Answer

Targeting the communication solely to experts in the specific research area.

Question 41

Which of the following does NOT affect statistical power in quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

Research design

Answer

Sample size

Answer

Effect size

Answer

Significance level

Question 42

How does research design contribute to the validity of quantitative research findings?

Accepted Answer

Minimizes bias and enhances accuracy

Answer

Enables generalization to a broader population

Answer

Solely determines appropriate statistical tests

Answer

Has no impact on validity

Question 43

Which of the following is NOT a type of probability sampling technique?

Accepted Answer

Quota sampling

Answer

Simple random sampling

Answer

Stratified sampling

Answer

Cluster sampling

Question 44

What is the primary purpose of a hypothesis in quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

To provide a testable explanation for a phenomenon

Answer

To describe the characteristics of a population

Answer

To generate new research ideas

Answer

To provide evidence to support a research question

Question 45

Which measure of central tendency is most easily affected by extreme values (outliers)?

Accepted Answer

Mean

Answer

Median

Answer

Mode

Answer

Standard deviation

Question 46

What is the main purpose of inferential statistics?

Accepted Answer

To make predictions about a population based on a sample

Answer

To describe the characteristics of a sample

Answer

To identify relationships between variables

Answer

To test the significance of differences between groups

Question 47

Which of the following is NOT a type of inferential statistical test?

Accepted Answer

Descriptive statistics

Answer

t-test

Answer

ANOVA

Answer

Chi-square test

Question 48

What is the key distinction between a population and a sample?

Accepted Answer

A population includes all individuals of interest, while a sample is a subset selected from the population.

Answer

A population is the group being studied, while a sample is the group from which data is collected.

Answer

A population is defined by its characteristics, while a sample is defined by its size.

Answer

A population is hypothetical, while a sample is real.

Question 49

What is the primary purpose of a research proposal?

Accepted Answer

To present an overview and justification for a research project

Answer

To secure funding for a research project

Answer

To obtain feedback on a research project

Answer

To demonstrate the researcher's expertise

Question 50

Power analysis is a statistical technique used to determine the minimum sample size needed to:

Accepted Answer

Detect a statistically significant effect

Answer

Calculate the probability of a significant result

Answer

Compare means between groups

Answer

Determine the effect size of a study

Question 51

In quantitative research, which type of statistics is used to condense and portray the traits of a sample?

Accepted Answer

Descriptive statistics

Answer

Inferential statistics

Answer

Correlation statistics

Question 52

What is the primary purpose of a research hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

To provide a testable explanation for an observed phenomenon

Answer

To describe the characteristics of the study sample

Answer

To summarize the findings of a study

Answer

To determine the significance of a relationship

Question 53

What is the purpose of an independent-samples t-test?

Accepted Answer

To compare the means of two independent samples

Answer

To test for a significant difference between two proportions

Answer

To determine the correlation between two variables

Answer

To predict the value of one variable based on another

Question 54

What is the primary responsibility of an Institutional Review Board (IRB)?

Accepted Answer

To ensure the ethical conduct of research involving human subjects.

Answer

To approve research protocols.

Answer

To conduct research studies.

Answer

To publish research findings.

Question 55

In an experimental research design, which variable is manipulated by the researcher?

Accepted Answer

Independent variable

Answer

Dependent variable

Answer

Control variable

Answer

Extraneous variable

Question 56

Which statistical test is commonly used to compare means between two independent groups?

Accepted Answer

t-test

Answer

ANOVA

Answer

Chi-square test

Answer

Correlation analysis

Question 57

Which of the following is an example of an ordinal scale of measurement?

Accepted Answer

Likert scale responses

Answer

Temperature in degrees Fahrenheit

Answer

Weight in kilograms

Answer

Eye color

Question 58

Which of the following is a primary strength of using a quantitative research design?

Accepted Answer

Objectivity and generalizability of findings

Answer

In-depth understanding of subjective experiences

Answer

Flexibility in data collection and analysis

Answer

Focus on individual experiences

Question 59

What is a potential drawback of using online surveys in quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

Potential for bias

Answer

High response rates

Answer

Low cost and time efficiency

Answer

Ability to collect qualitative data

Question 60

Which of the following is NOT a type of sampling technique used in quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

Expert sampling

Answer

Probability sampling

Answer

Non-probability sampling

Answer

Stratified sampling

Question 61

What is the primary purpose of a hypothesis in quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

To provide a specific, testable prediction or explanation about the relationship between variables

Answer

To summarize the findings of a study

Answer

To guide the selection of research participants

Answer

To determine the statistical significance of results

Question 62

Which statistical test is most appropriate for determining the relationship between two continuous variables?

Accepted Answer

Linear regression

Answer

t-test

Answer

F-test

Answer

Chi-square test

Question 63

What is the key distinction between descriptive and inferential statistics?

Accepted Answer

Descriptive statistics describe and summarize data, while inferential statistics make inferences and draw conclusions about a larger population based on a sample

Answer

Inferential statistics are more accurate than descriptive statistics

Answer

Descriptive statistics are used for smaller sample sizes than inferential statistics

Answer

Inferential statistics can predict future outcomes

Question 64

Which data collection method is most suitable for gathering large amounts of data from a large population?

Accepted Answer

Surveys

Answer

Interviews

Answer

Focus groups

Answer

Observations