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Quantitative and Qualitative Research

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Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Research in nursing frequently uses two primary research approaches: quantitative and

qualitative. This discussion will deliver an overview of the contrasts between quantitative and

qualitative research designs. Additionally, the discussion will examine how to ensure the ethical

conduct of a published study, a crucial element of maintaining research integrity in nursing.

In research, rudimentary distinctions between quantitative and qualitative methodologies

comprise the nature of data, approach, and data collection methods. Quantitative research

predominantly deals with numerical data, seeking to test or confirm theories by quantifying

variables. Quantitative research relies heavily on the application of statistical and mathematical

techniques to generate and analyze data. In contrast, qualitative research takes a unique

approach, emphasizing language and descriptive narratives to better understand concepts,

thoughts, and experiences (Mehrad & Zangeneh, 2019). Qualitative research embraces

subjectivity, often utilizing open-ended questions, interviews, and observations to explore the

intricacies of human behavior and individual perspectives.

Regarding data collection methods, quantitative research adopts structured approaches

such as experiments, surveys with closed-ended questions, and meticulous record-keeping of

observations. In contrast, qualitative research employs diverse techniques, including interviews

featuring open-ended questions, focus groups, extensive literature reviews, and immersive

ethnographic studies as its primary means of data collection (Mehrad & Zangeneh, 2019).

Despite these methodological disparities, it is essential to note that quantitative and

qualitative research methodologies are susceptible to various research biases, including sampling

bias, observer bias, and the influence of social desirability (Strijker et al., 2020). Researchers
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employing either approach must remain vigilant in identifying, minimizing, and addressing these

biases to uphold the integrity and reliability of their research findings.

Furthermore, the ethical conduct of research is a shared responsibility in quantitative and

qualitative studies. To ensure ethical research practices, specific actions must be implemented.

As a first step, researchers should diligently assess the ethics section of research articles to

confirm their adherence to ethical guidelines and the necessary permissions, as Bhui et al. (2019)

recommended. Additionally, researchers must ensure that participants provide informed consent,

fully comprehending the study's purpose, risks, and their right to withdraw at any time. Proper

source citation and acknowledgment of original work are critical to prevent plagiarism. Lastly,

researchers should investigate the study authors' affiliations to pinpoint conflicts of interest that

could influence research findings (Bhui et al., 2019).

Overall, while quantitative research quantifies data to establish generalizable facts,

qualitative research delves into the depths of human experiences through words and descriptions.

Despite their distinctions, both approaches share the joint responsibility of upholding ethical

standards in research. Ensuring the ethical conduct of published studies through informed

scrutiny is principal for maintaining the integrity and credibility of nursing research.
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References

Bhui, K. S., Lee, W., Kaufman, K. R., & Lawrie, S. M. (2019). Ensuring research integrity:

setting standards for robust and ethical conduct and reporting of research. The British

Journal of Psychiatry, 215(1), 381–382.

Mehrad, A., & Zangeneh, M. H. T. (2019). Comparison between qualitative and quantitative

research approaches Social sciences. International Journal For Research In Educational

Studies, Iran, 5(7), 1-7.

Strijker, D., Bosworth, G., & Bouter, G. (2020). Research methods in rural studies: Qualitative,

quantitative, and mixed methods. Journal of Rural Studies, 78, 262-270.

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References