Assumptions in Quantitative Research

Theories are the organized concepts that help to define or understand behaviors, relationships or a phenomenon (Green, 2014). Thus, theories are the foundation of scholarly research and act as an outline to carry out a study. They are used to process and analyzing data and contribute to knowledge in literature and practice (Green, 2014; Udo-Akang, 2012). Theories are used to guide research but are also utilized in a parallel process with research to explain and to predict, explain problems, events, systems, and experiences (Udo-Akang, 2012). In a wraparound effect, studies help to advancement theories through the application of the framework to the research methodology (Green, 2014; Udo-Akang, 2012). The theory and its constructs guide the research design (Green, 2014; Udo-Akang, 2012). Existing theories are said to most likely

According to the course syllabus we were introduced to the techniques of psychological research. This course was able to provide an understanding of how research is done, and what methods we can use to do so. By having a clear understanding of research and techniques used, it allows us to communicate effectively in regards to ideas behind the research process. In this paper, I will use myself as the case study to examine exactly what I learned about research.

Within this assignment there will be a clear demonstration and understanding of the concept of research in relation to the acquisition of underpinning knowledge appropriate to my programme of study. I will also be undertaking a comparative analysis of the nature and validity of quantitative and qualitative research methods. I will also be demonstrating skills in critical analysis of methods of data collection and selection of appropriate methods to informing future working practice. I will also be analyse the ethical considerations in relation to the development and undertaking of research.

Dunbar, G. (2005). Evaluating Research Methods in Psychology. New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons Inc.

“Applied Nursing Research presents original, peer-reviewed research findings clearly and directly for clinical applications in all nursing specialties” (Applied Nursing Research, n.d., p. 1).

Theories are a set of interrelated concepts that give a systematic view of a phenomenon (an observable fact or event) that is

Burn, N and Groves, S.K (2005) The Practice of Nursing Research. (6th edition), Elservier, Missouri 63146

Research was rarely discussed in the nursing realm during the time of my studies. According to the National Institute of Nursing Research, “a 1983 report by the Institute of Medicine recommended that nursing research be included in the mainstream of biomedical and behavioral science, and a 1984 NIH Task Force study found nursing research activities to be relevant to the NIH mission. These findings resulted in legislative action that established the National Center for Nursing Research (NCNR) at NIH in April 1986” (National Institute of Nursing Research, retrieved 8/21/2015).

Benton, C. and Cormack, D. (2000). Reviewing and evaluating the literature. In D. Cormack (ed.) The Research Process in Nursing. 4th Edition. London: London Chapter.

Maxwell (2005) also notes that qualitative research can be used to address various issues and is not restricted to one ontological stance. The method also involves developing a relationship with the people one is studying, an aspect that is important in defining the authenticity of the data and determining the course of action.

Gall, M. D., Gall, J. P., & Borg, W. R. (2007). Educational Research - An Introduction (A. E. Burvikovs & E. Reily Eds. Pearson International Edition, 8th ed.). Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Ontology is the question of the nature of the reality. It deals with what exists, and what the reality of the situation is currently, recognizing that reality can and will change. It assists in defining the views and assumptions of the researcher (Kramer-Kile, 2012).

Houser, J. (2012). Nursing research: reading, using, and creating evidence. (2nd ed.). Boston: Jones & Bartlett.

Undoubtedly, there is an unswerving relationship between the theory and its application. Theory offers direction in research, and its application affords a baseline for research. In the following text, the relationship between theory and application and the manner in which a theory guides practices is espoused upon. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to show how research and theory are connected and how both serve as models for good practice in finding the appropriate information that allows investigators to resolve issues and to solve research problems, while also adding to the world’s body of knowledge (Akang, 2012).