Research Methods and Applications for Student Affairs

Chapter NineLearning Quantitative Research

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:

• Understand the purpose and role of statistics in research.
• Differentiate between the major types of statistics.
• Know answers to basic questions about statistics in research.
• Apply basic statistical terminology.
• Relate statistical research to student affairs practice.

Many students and novice research consumers are intimidated by quantitative research. Having to identify, use, and interpret quantitative data can be daunting and confusing for novice consumers. Some learners are simply overwhelmed by the thought of statistics, based on poor prior experiences, lack of exposure, or a general aversion to math. Unfortunately, few ...