Which type of research is grounded in analyzing large representative samples?

The type of research that is grounded in analyzing large representative samples is quantitative research. This approach focuses on collecting numerical data and often employs statistical methods to analyze that data. By using large samples, researchers can infer findings that are generalizable to a broader population, increasing the reliability and validity of the results. Quantitative research typically emphasizes measurement, numbers, and objective data, allowing for comparisons and trend analysis.

Qualitative research, in contrast, is primarily concerned with understanding the meaning and context of social phenomena, often through smaller, non-representative samples. Descriptive research aims to describe characteristics of a population or phenomenon but does not necessarily involve the statistical analysis of large samples. Case study research focuses on a detailed examination of a single case or a small number of cases, which is not conducive to the type of large sample analysis seen in quantitative research. Thus, the nature of quantitative research makes it the clear choice when discussing research grounded in analyzing large representative samples.