![]() Further, statistical analysis requires a large data sample, which calls for a large pool of participants. Participants cannot tailor their responses or add context. Yet, while the objectivity is a benefit of the quantitative method, it can be viewed as a more restrictive form of study. Quantitative studies can be quickly produced with the benefit of data computing software. Results can be clearly communicated through statistics and numbers. Quantitative studies produce objective data, free from the subjectivity of a qualitative study. In addition, qualitative studies often test a smaller sample size because of the costs and efforts associated with qualitative data collection methods. The expertise and perspective of the researcher may strongly influence the interpretation of results and the conclusions reached, as personal bias can be hard to manage. However, qualitative studies are more subjective in their results and interpretation than are quantitative studies. The scope of the research project can change as more information is gathered. The qualitative method allows for creativity, varied interpretations and flexibility. ![]() Researchers must consider their hypotheses and what forms of data collection and analysis are likely to produce the most relevant findings. Benefits and LimitationsĮach form of research has benefits and shortcomings. Quantitative research is often focused on answering the questions of “what” or “how” in regards to a phenomenon, correlation or behavior. Whether positive or negative, the outcome can spark awareness and action. They may either confirm or disprove the study’s original hypothesis. Such statistical results may shed light on cause-and-effect relationships. In contrast, quantitative data are analyzed numerically to develop a statistical picture of a trend or connection. Qualitative research is often focused on answering the “why” behind a phenomenon, correlation or behavior. Over the course of a study, conclusions are drawn by compiling, comparing and evaluating the informants’ feedback and input. Qualitative researchers seek to learn from details of the testimonies of those they are studying, also called their informants. One of the factors distinguishing qualitative from quantitative studies is the nature of the intended outcome. ![]() Questionnaires in this case have a multiple-choice format to generate countable answers, like yes or no, which can be turned into quantifiable data. The above collection methods yield data that lends itself to numerical analysis. Some forms of data collection for this type of study include: 1 These methods include compiling numerical data to test causal relationships among variables. Quantitative studies, in contrast, require different data collection methods. The responses provide a comprehensive perspective on each individual’s experiences, which are then compared with those of other participants in the study. To allow freedom for varied or unexpected answers, interviews and focus groups may be unstructured or semi-structured.Īn unstructured or semi-structured format allows the researcher to pose open-ended questions and follow where the responses lead. In the course of a qualitative study, the researcher may conduct interviews or focus groups to collect data that is not available in existing documents or records. The following are some sources of qualitative data: 1 Qualitative research methods include gathering and interpreting non-numerical data. In contrast, qualitative studies rely on personal accounts or documents that illustrate in detail how people think or respond within society. Quantitative studies rely on numerical or measurable data. Quantitative Data CollectionĪs qualitative and quantitative studies collect different data, their data collection methods differ considerably. Awareness of these approaches can help researchers construct their study and data collection methods. While both provide an analysis of data, they differ in their approach and the type of data they collect. There are two distinct types of data collection and study-qualitative and quantitative.
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