Question

There are two major paradigms or research: quantitative and qualitative. Which of these paradigms are you inclined to participate in or design? Why?

Answer 1

QUALITATIVE RESEARCH APPROACH: It defined as a scientific research method that focuses on obtaining data through open-ended and conversational communication.

In short, this research focuses on gathering of many verbal data rather than measurements.

QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH APPROACH: It is a research methodology which uses questions and questionnaires to gather quantified data and perform statistical analysis to derive meaningful research conclusions.

In short, only measurable data are being gathered and analyzed.  For instance., Surveys

1. AIM OF THE RESEARCH:

The main aim of the qualitative research is to provide a complete, detailed description of the research topic whereas the other focuses more in counting and classifying features and constructing statistical models and figures to explain what is observed.

2. Quantitative research is highly recommended because it gives a clear picture of what to expect in the research compared to qualitative approach.

3. In qualitative research, the data is gathered through interviews, focus groups, documentary analysis, participant observation and archival research while the quantitative research is done through surveys, questionnaires, and other equipment to collect numerical data.

4. Qualitative research approach is primarily subjective in nature because it have the tendency to understand the human behavior and reasons to such behavior. On the other hand, quantitative data are objective in nature because it only seeks precise measurements and analysis of samples based on the researchers inquiry.

5. The approach to inquiry to qualitative data is process-oriented and holistic in nature while the other is outcome-oriented and is well focussed.

DETERMINING WHICH METHOD SHOULD BE USED

Each design has its own strengths and weakness which actually vary based on the topic that the researcher have designed to study. From my point of view, if the topic is based on the numerical data with more pictures and statistical data then it would better to use with Quantitative research. However, if the researcher wish to explain based on the particular event that happened then it is better to design the study with Qualitative research.

To conclude, an ideal research is one, which is conducted by considering both the methods together in conducting a study. Although, there are areas with which specific research methods mainly depends on the data needed by the researcher. While the qualitative research is interpretative, quantitative research is concrete.