Quantitative researchers gather empirical evidence —evidence that is rooted in objective reality and gathered directly or indirectly through the senses rather than through personal beliefs or hunches. Evidence for a quantitative study is gathered systematically, using formal instruments to collect needed information. Usually (but not always) the information is quantitative—that is, numeric information that results from some type of formal measurement and that is analyzed statistically. Quantitative researchers strive to go beyond the specifics of a research situation; the ability to generalize research findings to individuals other than those who took part in the study (referred to as generalizability) is an important goal.
Polit, D. (2014). Essentials of Nursing Research. Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins.
For background information on terminology that you might see throughout this class, try your textbook or the following book:
