Question

Q2-Explain quantitative and qualitative research. Give example.

Answer 1

Quantitative research is a research method that uses computational, mathematical, or statistical techniques to analyze/generate numerical data. In this type of research, numbers and graphs are used for data analysis and to draw conclusions based on that. This method is used to confirm or test a theory or hypothesis. Since this method is about the quantity, a larger sample size is used, i.e., a large number of data is collected for data analysis and to reach a conclusion based on that. This is a conclusive research type with an objective approach and is result-oriented

Example: Conducting quantitative research on 'how satisfied are students with their studies?'. Conducted a survey for 300 students of the university and asked them closed questions like 'on a scale from 1-5, how satisfied are you with your professors?.' With the collected data a statistical analysis is conducted and conclusions were drawn as 'on an average students rate their professors 4.5/5.'

Qualitative research is a research method that uses verbal narratives like interviews or written data to understand or explore concepts, ideas, or experiences. This method is used to formulate hypotheses and is expressed in words. In this case, a smaller sample size is used. The data analysis is conducted by summarizing, categorizing, and interpreting and the conclusion is drawn. This is an in-depth study of a person, organization etc. This is an exploratory research type with a subjective approach and is process-oriented.

Example: Conducting qualitative research on how satisfied are students with their studies. An interview is conducted for 50 students, and asked them open-ended questions such as 'how satisfied are you with your studies?' or 'what can be done to improve the study program?' Then these interviews are transcribed and patterns of recurrent needs are taken to draw a conclusion.