Topic > Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods - 2509

IntroductionQualitative and quantitative research methods are typically applied in the field of social research. There has been much discussion among researchers about the relative advantages between the two designs, almost more than about any other methodological issue. Quantitative research design includes methods that focus on numbers, that is, quantities. The data collected in this project is usually numerical which is then analyzed using statistical and mechanical methods. This project is strongly associated with the field of science, as in practice carried out in a laboratory (Gall et al 2003). On the other hand, qualitative design normally uses words to explain broader concepts that cannot be captured mathematically such as beliefs, feelings, and intentions. The data collected in this project can be in the form of words, field notes, and transcriptions. The data from this design cannot be understood mathematically (Timmons 2005). This article is an attempt to identify what can be considered distinct differences and the importance of each method. Quantitative method This research involves the use of questions whose response options have been predetermined (Bogdan & Biklen 1992). This research design involves the use of a large number of interviewees. The measurement in this design must theoretically be objective, numerical and statistically valid. Due to the large number of respondents, the sampling method used is random. Before carrying out the research, the researcher applies a statistical method using formulas to determine the sample size that, when studied, would provide results within acceptable limits. Researchers using this method generally agree that the sample being researched should produce results with a 95% confidence interval or there… middle of the article…, “Origins of Randomization in Experimental Design.” Journal of Special Issue on Experiment & Artifact, 79 (3), pp.427–451. Jick, T 1979, 'Mixing Quantitative & Qualitative Methods. Triangulation in action'. Administrative Sciences Quarterly, 24, pp.602-611.Lather, P 1992, 'Critical frames in Educational Research'. Theory in Practice, 31(2), pp.87–99.Schostak, J 2006. Interviews and qualitative and representative research projects Berkshire; Open University press.Spector, P 1981. Research designs. Quantitative applications in the social sciences. London; Sage Publications.Timmons, S 2005. Qualitative and quantitative research. Network. 21 March 2015. http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/nmp/sonet/rlos/ebp/qvq/3.html. Walker, W 2005, 'The strengths and weaknesses of research projects that involve quantitative measures". Journal of Nursing Research, 10(5), pp. 571-82