In quantitative research experiments students generally try to isolate the effect of a single variable. For example, students might test the effect of sucrose on rat behavior by increasing the amount of sugar they feed to rats and observing the number of times the rats run within 30 minutes of feeding. When orienting students to quantitative research methods, teach them to carefully isolate the variable they are testing. For example, students should work with rats of the same species, age, gender and general health condition. Teach statistical methods such as mean, median and standard deviation so that students can determine if the changes they observe are statistically significant or are simply the result of random distribution.
Each discipline has developed its own distinct patterns of discourse and analysis. They physical sciences usually rely heavily on quantitative research methods like scientific experimentation and statistical analysis. The social sciences tend emphasize qualitative research methods such as interviews and participant observation. When introducing students to qualitative and quantitative research methods, discuss the ways in which various academic disciplines make use of the methods.
Familiarize students with the nature of cross-disciplinary research and how to combine qualitative and quantitative methods for a more powerful research methodology. For example, a university student interviewing people from different religions might note the number of times the word "pray" comes up in each interview. In his analysis, the student would discuss any generalizations he was able to make based upon the interview, a qualitative method of analysis. He might also include a quantitative analysis demonstrating a relationship between religious identity and the number of times individuals spoke the words "pray" or "prayer." Many students who participate in cross-disciplinary studies use a balanced approach involving qualitative and quantitative methods.
Teach the necessary competencies when orienting students to qualitative and quantitative research methods. For example, qualitative researchers need to know techniques for interview short-hand and transcription. Researchers of animal behavior researching primates may need practice identifying distinct primate body and facial gestures. Good research requires a range of competencies. Give students time to practice the skills needed for their research inquiry.