Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Research design is classified into two kinds: qualitative and quantitative methods.

Either or both can be utilized by researchers depending on the use. Thus, the quantitative method
is used when clarity, reliability and validity is sought. A qualitative method is used when
richness, complexity and data are not translated in numerical scale.

Quantitative
1.Representative sample
2.Deals with numbers and statistic
3.Data collected through instruments based on precisely destines variables
4.Objective, replicable and reliable
5.Deductive
6.Test theories
7.Develop conclusion based on data
8.Clarity based on interpreting numerical data
9.Known reliability and validity
10.Standard measuring devices
11.Intervention, no participant involvement
12.Adhere to scientific method
13. Numerical data
14. Controlled-laboratory setting
Qualitative
1.Small sample
2.Deals with words and meaning
3.Emphasizes in organizing coordinating and synthesizing large qualities of 4.data
4.Subjective and personal
5.Inductive
6.Develop theories
7.Develop values and judgment based on data processed
8.Complex and rich experiences; void of most numerical data
9.Unknown reliability and validity
10.Non-standard measuring devices
11.Participant involvement
12Does not follow scientific method
13. Narrative- words to describe the complexity
14. Conducted in natural setting (e.g. public places)

Quantitative
-It is used to quantify the problems by way of generating numerical data or data that can be
transformed to usable statistics. It is used to quantify attitudes, opinions, behaviors and other
defined variables-and generalized results from a larger sample population.
Qualitative
-It is simply exploratory research. It is used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons,
opinions and motivations. It provides insights into the problems or helps to develop ideas or
hypothesis.

Research Examples (Quantitative Research)

Historical Research-It is designed to portray a complete and accurate description of historical
events.
Descriptive Research-It analyzes the trends that are developing, as well as current situation
Correlational Research-It shows the relationships between two or more variables

Research Examples (Qualitative Research)

Case study-it is an on depth investigation focused on one social unit or an individual
Individual experiences-the research is focused on exploring personal or extraordinary
experience of a person or group
Perspective taking-it focuses on how different people perceive an event, behavior or activity.

There are different types of qualitative research including diary accounts, in-depth
interviews, documents, focus groups, case study research, and ethnography. The
results of qualitative method provides a deep understanding of how people perceive
their social realities and in consequence, how they act within the social world.