COMPS Exam Study Guide: Qualitative Analysis of Social Action

This study guide will be used to study all of the material from my qualitative analysis course

What are the key characteristics that differentiate qualitative research from quantitative research? Provide examples to illustrate your points.

Qualitative and quantitative research approaches offer distinct ways of investigating phenomena, and these differences are reflected in their application to communication disorders research (Keegan, 2012). Qualitative research aims to explore and understand experiences, while quantitative research seeks to measure and quantify relationships between variables.

Key Differentiating Characteristics

• Nature of Data

• Research Questions

• Objectives

• Methods

• Sample Size

• Analysis

Examples to Illustrate the Differences

• Research Question

• Data Collection

• Data Analysis

Nature of Data: Qualitative Research

Employs non-numerical data, such as interview transcripts, observational notes, and textual documents, to explore meanings and patterns within the context of communication disorders (Simmons-Mackie & Damico, 2003). For example, Fourie et al. (2009) used qualitative methods to explore the therapeutic relationship in speech and language therapy from the perspectives of adults with acquired communication and swallowing disorders.

Nature of Data: Quantitative Research

Focuses on numerical data that can be statistically analyzed to establish relationships between variables relevant to communication disorders (Schlosser, 2018). For instance, Law, Garrett, & Nye (2004) conducted a meta-analysis to quantify the efficacy of treatment for children with developmental speech and language delay/disorder.

Research Questions: Qualitative Research

Investigates "how" and "why" questions to gain in-depth insights into the experiences and perspectives of individuals with communication disorders. Westby et al. (2003) highlights the use of ethnographic interviewing to understand clients' perspectives.