The collection of data that can be quantified is called what type of research?

• A. Qualitative research
• B. Sample
• C. Quantitative research
• D. Primary research

Answer: (C)

Understanding when data are numeric and can be measured is key. When a study collects and analyzes data that can be quantified, using numbers to describe amounts, frequencies, or relationships, that is quantitative research. This approach relies on statistics to identify patterns and draw conclusions.

In contrast, qualitative research gathers non-numeric information like opinions, experiences, and descriptions to explore meaning rather than measure quantity. A sample is simply a subset of the population used in the study, not a descriptor of the data type. Primary research refers to data collected directly by the researcher and can be either qualitative or quantitative, so it doesn’t specify the numeric nature of the data.