Surveys are a commonly used quantitative research method to collect data from a large sample of participants. They allow researchers to analyze data from a wide range of participants on a giventopic.
Examples
– In a study of college readiness, a researcher could administer a survey to high school seniors to gather data on their academic preparation, goals, and aspirations for college.
– In a study of attitudes towards vaccination, a researcher could administer a survey to a diverse sample of adults to gather data on viewpoints, beliefs, and practices related to vaccination.
Quantitative Research Methods
Experiments
Experiments are controlled studies designed to investigate cause-and-effect relationships between dependent and independent variables in a controlled setting.
Examples
– In a study of the effect of music on productivity, a researcher could conduct an experiment in which participants are randomly assigned to either listen to music or work in silence, and their productivity is measured.
– In a study of the effect of a new teaching method on student learning, a researcher could conduct an experiment in which one group of students is taught using the new method, while another group is taught using a traditional method, and their test scores are compared.
Quantitative Research Methods
Statistical Analysis
Statistical analysis is a method used to interpret quantitative data and draw conclusions about patterns and relationships.
Examples
– In a study of gender wage gap, a researcher could use statistical analysis to compare the average earnings of men and women in a particular occupation, controlling for variables such as education and experience.
– In a study of the relationship between social media and mental health, a researcher could use statistical analysis to examine the correlation between social media use and symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Teach something that matters.
First Day of Class
In the Media
5
min.
How are course themes playing out in the world today?
- Find a meaningful example that students will be able to connect with - Use the example to preview key ideas covered in the course - Focus on big picture course concepts and explain their importance
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Conduct a structured exit survey. For example, ask 3 concepts students learned, 2 applications that interest them, and 1 question they still have.
Use this activity to evaluate what students learned relative to the session's objectives
Usually 3 to 10 minutes
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ENGAGEMENT
High
FEEDBACK
High
PREP TIME
Average
Best Practices
Modify the structure of the 3-2-1 elements. For example, ask students 3 moments they were most engaged, 2 moments they were least engaged, and 1 thing they plan to do before next session.
Have students hand in their responses as an "exit ticket" when leaving the room.
Consider using survey technology like Slido or Poll Everywhere to anonymize responses.
Get more information on the 3-2-1 format from Northern Illinois University.
Affective Response
Let students express their first impressions about the topics or skills you're about to cover, or to material they have prepared for this session.
Background Knowledge Probe
Give a short pre-test to evaluate what students already know about the material you're about to cover.