Which of the following is not a quantitative research?

RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2016

Nursing Research & Statistics

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Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2016

Explanation

Phenomenological research is a primary method of qualitative inquiry.
Its goal is to describe and understand a phenomenon from the perspective of those who have experienced it.
Data consists of words, descriptions, and narratives, not numerical values, which is the defining characteristic of qualitative research.

Option B: Experimental research is a classic example of quantitative research. It involves the manipulation of variables and statistical analysis of numerical data to test a hypothesis.
Option C: Quasi-experimental research is a quantitative design. Although it lacks random assignment, it still involves manipulating variables and collecting numerical data to assess outcomes.
Option D: Correlational research is a non-experimental form of quantitative research. It uses statistical methods to measure and describe the relationship between two or more variables.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Distinguishing between Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Both research types are vital in nursing. Quantitative research can prove the effectiveness of a clinical intervention (e.g., a new wound care protocol), providing evidence-based practice guidelines.
Qualitative research (like phenomenology) provides deep insight into the patient experience, helping nurses understand the psychosocial impact of illness and provide more holistic, patient-centered care.
What if? If a nurse researcher wanted to measure the effect of a new educational program on diabetic patients' blood sugar levels, they would use a quantitative design (like quasi-experimental). If they wanted to understand how patients feel about managing their diabetes daily, they would use a qualitative design (like phenomenological).

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'quantitative research'. Recall its definition: research based on numerical data and statistical analysis.
Note the negative word 'not'. The task is to find the option that does not fit the definition of quantitative research.
Evaluate each option: 'Experimental', 'Quasi-experimental', and 'Correlational' all involve measuring variables and using statistics, making them quantitative.
'Phenomenological' focuses on experiences and descriptions (non-numerical data), which is characteristic of qualitative research.
Therefore, phenomenological research is the one that is 'not' quantitative.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Distinguishing between Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods
Stem keywords: quantitative research, research
Lead-in keywords: not
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks to identify the option that is NOT a type of quantitative research.

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E6 NursingResearch Suresh Sharma 5e Part 1 pp. 30-32, 180-182

E6 NursingResearch Sukhpal Kaur p. 180-182