Quantitative methods - Essay Example

For a method to qualify as a scientific method, anchorage of its assertions should be on empirical and measurable evidence, which is subject to specific principles of reasoning. In science, quantitative methods often measure results of qualitative research such as making an analysis of certain observations, patterns and relationships made. Measurements start with collecting data, and making the use of statistics in analysing this data. Accordingly, quantitative methods use information dealing with numbers and measurements, through tables and graphs, to show results, experiments as well as research.

Through quantitative research, it is possible to relate the collected data to a larger population analyse the numerical data and use statistics to draw conclusions and recommendations. As such, if used properly, quantitative research can produce valuable scientific research. In communication studies, quantitative research can provide essential information on the impact of communication studies on students’ overall communication ability. Further, they can provide information on the effects of communication media to the quality of information or the different communication barriers and their effect in the communication process. 2. Validity is the extent to which a research instrument successfully measures what it should measure and perform what it is supposed to perform.

Although no instrument has the capacity to produce 100% results, and be termed as fully valid, measurement of the validity of an instrument mostly is on degrees. Validation of an instrument is a process that involves collecting and analysing data, then subjecting it through statistical tests, which generally involves pilot testing. There are two methods of testing the validity of an instrument; external validity and content validity. External validity is the extent to which a study’s results can be generalized from a sample to a population.

Content validity on the other hand refers to the appropriateness of the content of a particular measuring instrument, especially by answering questions whether the questions, observations or logos assess or major reason for conducting the study. Reliability of an instrument on the other hand in general is consistency. With consistency, we seek to answer the question as to whether the instrument consistently measures what it is intended to measure. Examples of communications applications valid measurement variables include the speed of sending or receiving information, the quality of information received, the likelihood of breakdown and finally the compatibility with the media. 3. There is a direct relationship between reliability and validity of measure.

A study can be highly valid but have low validity qualities. This is because information contained in a study could be reliable but not valid in its context. Findings may be reliable or consistent across all studies but may not be valid, i.e. accurate and true statements about relationships among the different variables. However, findings there is no way that findings could be valid if they are not reliable. To describe a communication instrument as reliable, it should produce consistent results every time it is performed.

For instance, we can consider a communication variable such as communication climate. Some organizations may consider this as a reliable variable, but necessarily a valid measure of