Research Methods: Quantitative Vs Qualitative

LO.1.3. Evaluate the importance of qualitative research in complementing quantitative approaches

What is quantitative research?

Research using measurement and numerical data to test hypotheses and explain behaviour.

What is the hypothetico-deductive model?

Theory → hypothesis → data → revise theory.

Why did qualitative research develop and what does it focus on?

To address limitations of purely quantitative approaches.

Focuses on meanings, experiences and context rather than only measurement.

What are common qualitative research methods?

Interviews, focus groups, ethnography, discourse and narrative analysis.

What are the four principles of qualitative research?

Meaning/context, participant-centred research, flexibility and reflexivity.

What is reflexivity?

Awareness of how the researcher's role, values and assumptions shape the study.

What is transferability?

The extent to which qualitative insights can inform other contexts.

It is supported through thick description of ppts, setting and research processes.

How do quantitative and qualitative research complement each other?

Quantitative research provides measurement; qualitative research adds depth, meaning and context.

What does mixed-methods research do?

Integrates quantitative measurement with qualitative meaning and context.