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Published on: Jul 12, 2021
Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024
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When it comes to writing a research paper, there are two main approaches: qualitative and quantitative.
Both qualitative and quantitative research have their advantages and uses. Understanding the differences between them is essential to choosing the right research method for your study.
This blog explore these types of research methods and the differences between them. You’ll also get some real-life examples to help you determine which approach is best for your project..
Read on to learn about qualitative vs quantitative research.
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The two research methods differ in the way they collect data, analyze it, and reach conclusions.
The goal of qualitative research is to gain an in-depth understanding of a particular phenomenon. Often through exploring the experiences and perspectives of participants.
The goal of quantitative research is to measure and quantify a particular phenomenon. Often with the aim of making predictions or generalizations about a larger population.
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Order NowHere is a table that clarifies the major differences between qualitative and quantitative research.
Qualitative Research | Quantitative Research | |
Purpose | Explore and Understand a phenomenon | Explore causal relationships between variables Test theories and hypotheses |
Sample Size | Small, Focused | Large |
Data Collection Methods |
|
|
Type of Data | Textual, Discursive | Numerical. Statistical |
Analysis Methods | Categorizing & interpreting data to identify themes and patterns | Statistical analysis to test hypotheses and draw conclusions |
Validity | Emphasizes internal validity (extent to which research accurately measures what it claims to measure) | Emphasizes external validity (extent to which research findings can be generalized to a larger population) |
Disciplines | Most commonly used in Social Sciences and Humanities | Commonly used in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), and sometimes also in Social Sciences |
Just getting started with research? Head to our types of research blog to get a complete overview.
Your research questions reflect the direction and methodology of your research project.
The research questions asked in quantitative and qualitative studies are different. Letâs take a look at how research questions for qualitative and quantitative research are formulated.
Qualitative research questions often focus on âhowâ or âwhyâ something occurs, rather than measuring or quantifying it.
Examples of Qualitative Research Questions
Quantitative research questions often focus on what, how much, or how many of something. These questions have clear variables and seek to uncover any relationships between these variables.
Examples of Quantitative Research Questions
Here is a short video explaining the key differences between the two methods:
Letâs explore each type of research methodology in-depth. Knowing the unique qualities of each one will help you better understand their differences.
Qualitative research is a research method that aims to understand the subjective experiences of individuals or groups in their natural settings.
Qualitative research typically involves gathering data through methods like interviews, focus groups, and observation. It analyzes data through coding, interpreting, and categorizing it to identify themes and patterns.
Here are the features of qualitative research that differentiates it from quantitative research:
There are different methods within qualitative research suitable for different research goals. Here are a few examples:
There are several advantages that come with qualitative research, including:
However, there are also some limitations to qualitative research. For instance,
Qualitative research is best suited for exploring subjective and social phenomena. It is more suitable for understanding the perspectives and experiences of individuals or groups.
It is also useful in situations where little is known about the topic or the researcher wants to generate hypotheses for further investigation.
In addition, qualitative research is also used where quantitative data is not available. Or, when it is necessary to complement quantitative data with more in-depth qualitative analysis.
Quantitative research is a research method that aims to measure and quantify phenomena through numerical data and statistical analysis.
It typically involves gathering data through methods like surveys and experiments. Then, analyzing the data using statistical methods to identify patterns and relationships between variables.
Quantitative research is defined by the following characteristics:
Here are some of the most commonly used quantitative research methods:
Quantitative research methods often lead to very valuable findings. Here are some more benefits of using quantitative research.
Even though it has several advantages over the qualitative method, it also has several limitations. These include:
Quantitative research is best suited for testing a hypothesis. It should be used in situations where a cause-and-effect relationship between variables needs to be identified.
Additionally, it is helpful when the researcher wants to generalize the findings to a larger population.
Here are some examples of qualitative and quantitative research to help you get an even better understanding.
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Order NowTo sum up,
Choosing the right form of research - qualitative or quantitative - depends on the research problem and the goals of the research project.
Qualitative research explores experiences, perspectives, and meanings related to a particular phenomenon. On the other hand, quantitative research aims to measure and quantify, often to make predictions or generalizations.
By getting help from an AI essay generator, you can select an appropriate approach to achieve your research objectives.
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WRITTEN BY
Nova A. (Literature, Marketing)
As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.
As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.
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