Quantitative research primarily uses which of the following?

Quantitative research is fundamentally based on the measurement and analysis of numerical data. It emphasizes objective metrics and statistical analysis to derive conclusions about the data being studied. This approach typically involves formulating hypotheses and then collecting data through structured methods such as surveys, experiments, or standardized tests. The results are expressed in numerical form, allowing for statistical tests to evaluate the hypotheses.

The emphasis on hypothesis testing with numerical results reflects the primary focus of quantitative research, which is to utilize mathematical and statistical tools to analyze patterns, relationships, and outcomes in data sets. This method prioritizes quantifiable evidence, enabling researchers to generalize findings across larger populations.

In contrast, other approaches do not align with the quantitative framework. For instance, using interviews and narratives tends to pertain to qualitative research, which seeks to explore and understand subjective experiences. Similarly, case studies and observations focus on qualitative methods that provide in-depth insights rather than statistical analysis. Lastly, qualitative analysis of behaviors and opinions aims to understand the underlying themes and meanings rather than relying on numerical data.