Qualitative and Quantitative Research

A series of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Qualitative Research

A method of inquiry that seeks to understand and interpret local meanings, often producing rich and detailed data.

Quantitative Research

A method of inquiry that uses numbers as data to identify relationships between variables and aims to generalize findings to a wider population.

Thick Descriptions

Detailed accounts from a small number of participants in qualitative research.

Thin Data

Data collected in quantitative research that is shallow but broad, involving many participants but not a lot of detail from each.

Grounded Theory

A qualitative research method that involves multiple stages of coding and recoding qualitative data into core categories and subcategories.

Inductive Reasoning

A reasoning method used in qualitative research that generates theory from specific observations.

Deductive Reasoning

A reasoning method used in quantitative research that tests existing theories using data.

Research Methods for Data Collection in Qualitative Research

Methods include interviews, focus groups, surveys, researcher-directed diaries, and analyzing existing textual data.

Sample Types in Quantitative Research

Random sample, stratified for age, taken from the general population.

Sample Types in Qualitative Research

Purposive sample selected based on specific characteristics, often smaller in size.

Sociocultural Blinds

Factors that make discussing safer sex difficult, such as beliefs about love and protection.

Power and Gender in Sexual Health

Influences that affect individual experiences and perceptions in sexual behaviors and decision-making.

Research Hypotheses

Statements that predict outcomes in quantitative research, such as expected changes in sexual behavior.

Evaluation of Qualitative Research

Useful for gaining deep understanding and informing interventions but cannot show general patterns or cause and effect.

Limitations of Quantitative Research

Cannot provide insights into the meanings of different experiences or why changes in behavior occurred.

Findings Related to HIV Risk

Qualitative research can uncover complex factors influencing young people's risk for HIV.