Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Quantitative and Qualitative Research

1. It is important to be able to identify and understand the research approach underlying any given study because the selection of a research approach influences the questions asked, the methods chosen, the statistical analyses used, the inferences made, and the ultimate goal of the research.

   • Quantitative
     • It is measured with numbers, and analysed using statistical techniques. Its goal is to determine whether the predictive generalizations of a theory are true.
       • Assumptions
         • - Reality is objective - The researcher should remain distant and independent of what is being researched - Research is value-free - Research is based primarily on deductive forms of logic and theories and hypotheses are tested in a cause-effect order - The goal is to develop generalizations.
           • Methods
             • 1. Experiments: They are characterized by random assignment of subjects to experimental conditions and the use of experimental controls.
               • 2. Quasi-Experiments: they share almost all the features of experimental designs except that they involve non-randomized assignment of subjects to experimental conditions.
                 • 3. Surveys: they include cross-sectional and longitudinal studies using questionnaires or interviews for data collection
   • Qualitative
     • Its goal is to understand a social or human problem from multiple perspectives. Qualitative research is conducted in a natural setting.
       • Assumptions
         • Multiple realities exist in any given situation - The researcher interacts with those s/he studies - The researcher explicitly recognizes and acknowledges the value-laden nature of the research - Research is context-bound - Research is based on inductive forms of logic - The goal is to uncover and discover patterns or theories that help explain a phenomenon of interest - Determinations of accuracy involve verifying the information with informants or "triangulating" among different sources of information.
           • Methods
             • 1. Case Studies: the researcher explores a single entity or phenomenon bounded by time and activity and collects detailed information.
               • 2. Ethnographic Studies: the researcher studies an intact cultural group in a natural setting over a specific period of time.
                 • 3. Phenomenological Studies: human experiences are examined through the detailed description of the people being studied -- the goal is to understand the ‘lived experience’ of the individuals being studied.

2. Why is it important to differentiate them?