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3.3.2 Characteristics of Quantitative Research
Struwig and Stead (2001: 4; 16) also mention certain characteristics of the quantitative research
approach. They are the following:
3.3.2.1 Constructs and their measurement
Quantitative research examines constructs or variables that are based on the hypothesis
derived from a theoretical scheme. It normally gives a weak theoretical account of how
constructs are derived. Constructs, however, are the central focus in quantitative research.
To conduct quantitative research, these constructs must be measured. The measurements
of constructs are usually done through the use of questionnaires and/or some form of
structured observation.
3.3.2.2 Causality
Quantitative research often tries to establish causal relationships between constructs.
Causal relationships can be defined as cause and effect relationships. The frequent use of
independent and dependent variables is evidence of quantitative researchers' tendency to
establish causal relationships between variables. A causal relationship between variables
explains why things are the way they are by specifying the causes thereof.
3.3.2.3 Generalisation
Quantitative researchers prefer to generalise results beyond the confines of the research
sample. A great deal of attention is paid to sampling issues and particularly to the
representativeness of the sample. It is important to establish that findings can be
generalised legitimately to awider population.
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