Compare and contrast between quantitative and qualitative approaches
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Added on 2022/12/29
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This article compares and contrasts the quantitative and qualitative research approaches. It discusses their differences, strengths, and weaknesses, and provides insights into when to use each approach. The article also mentions the methods used in data collection for both approaches.
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Running head: RESEARCH INQUIRY Research Inquiry Name of the student Name of the university Author note
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1RESEARCH INQUIRY Compare and contrast between quantitative and qualitative approaches In every research project, a specific approach is chosen for data collection and analysis to obtain relevant results. Quantitative and qualitative methods are two approaches used inresearch on any discipline. Qualitative research approach is mainly used in exploratory studies and is used for obtaining an understanding of the underlying motivations, opinions ad reasons. Qualitative approach is used for developing better insights into the research problem so that hypotheses or theories can be formulated for performing quantitative research on the insights (Ragin, 2014). It is used for in depth analysis of the research problem and uncover deeper trends in opinions and thoughts. Semi structured or unstructured techniques are followed in qualitative research. Individual interviews, focus groups and participation are few of the methods used forcollectingdatainqualitativeresearch.Thesamplesizeisrelativelysmallerand respondents are chosen based on the mentioned quota (Choy, 2014). In qualitative research, non-probabilistic sampling methods are used as the approach is subjective in nature. The overall inquiry is process oriented and is mainly used in social sciences and to gain understanding on human behaviour. It uses inductive reasoning to synthesise data. However, there are certain limitations to using qualitative research such as the process is time consuming, labour intensive and difficult to measure causal relationship (Choy, 2014). On the contrary, the quantitative approach is used for quantification of the given problem by developing either numerical data or data that can be used for quantification and statistical interpretation. This means that it is used for quantification of opinions, behaviours and attitudes to formulate results that are generalised (Ragin, 2014).A large population sample is used in quantitative research approach and uses measurable data to uncover patterns and generate facts.This method is highly structured in nature and the data is collected using different types of survey methods such as paper surveys, mobile surveys, online surveys, kiosk surveys and online surveys, telephone interviews, longitudinal studies, face-to-face interviews, systematic observations and online polls (Choy, 2014). Quantitative approach uses a scientific and empirical method to develop numerical data by using logical and statistical techniques. The quantitative research approach uses a conclusive approach and use deductive reasoning. This implies this method is ideal for addressing cause and effect relationshipbetweentwovariables.However,therearecertainlimitationsofusing
2RESEARCH INQUIRY quantitative approach such improper representation of population and lack of control on the data collection environment (Choy, 2014). References Choy, L. T. (2014). The strengths and weaknesses of research methodology: Comparison and complimentary between qualitative and quantitative approaches.IOSR Journal of Humanities and Social Science,19(4), 99-104. Ragin, C. C. (2014).The comparative method: Moving beyond qualitative and quantitative strategies. Univ of California Press.