The different types of quantitative research include correlational, descriptive, quasi-experimental, and experimental. Descriptive research gives a simple description of the data collected. The data collection methods used in descriptive research are direct observations, questionnaires, and interviews (Boore & Chen, 2009). Correlational research involves the use of two variables in research to determine their relationship (Boore & Chen, 2009).
Experimental research is the use of a test hypothesis. For instance in nursing, a hypothesis may be made where treatment X is more effective in a certain disease than treatment Y. This is done through a large random set of patients with the same illness to undergo treatment X while others through treatment Y and outcomes compared. Quasi-experimental research takes place if the only randomization is not possible in experimental research (Boore & Chen, 2009).
The level of bias, control, and manipulation differ with the descriptive research being been more prone to bias and manipulation and less prone in control while quasi-experimental and experimental are less prone to bias and manipulation and more prone in control. Descriptive is more prone to bias and manipulation as the outcomes of the research may either depend on the researcher or the participant. Quasi-experimental and experimental research involves critical experiments that make them less prone to bias and manipulation. It is possible to conduct true experimental research in nursing (Boore & Chen, 2009).
In every field, the type of research used gives the effectiveness of the outcomes. In nursing, a well-chosen type of research method gives true research. For instance, the use of experimental research can help to have true research as it subjects a group of people to a certain treatment and another group to another treatment and compare the results that can give a possible outcome of the treatment to be adopted.
Reference
Boore R. & Chen, Y. (2009). Using a synthesized technique for grounded theory in nursing research. Journal on Clinical Nursing, 16:2251-60.