Quantitative data
Quantitative Data
Quantitative data (pronunciation: kwon-tuh-tey-tiv dey-tuh) is a type of data that can be counted, measured, and expressed using numbers. It is often compared to qualitative data, which is more subjective and harder to measure.
Etymology
The term "quantitative" comes from the Latin word quantitatem, meaning "how much". "Data" is a plural of "datum", which is a Latin word meaning "something given". Therefore, "quantitative data" can be interpreted as "how much of something given".
Definition
Quantitative data refers to the systematic empirical investigation of observable phenomena via statistical, mathematical, or computational techniques. It is used in many disciplines including biology, economics, sociology, and medicine.
Types of Quantitative Data
There are two types of quantitative data: discrete data and continuous data. Discrete data is countable and has a finite number of possible values. Examples include the number of patients in a hospital or the number of pills in a prescription. Continuous data, on the other hand, can take any value within a range and is usually measured. Examples include a patient's weight or blood pressure.
Related Terms
- Variable (statistics): A characteristic, number, or quantity that increases or decreases over time, or takes different values in different situations.
- Statistical analysis: The collection, analysis, interpretation, presentation, and modeling of data.
- Data set: A collection of related sets of information that is composed of separate elements but can be manipulated as a unit by a computer.
- Data collection: The process of gathering and measuring information on variables of interest, in an established systematic fashion that enables one to answer stated research questions, test hypotheses, and evaluate outcomes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Quantitative data
- Wikipedia's article - Quantitative data
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