Qualitative and Quantitative Data

what is quantitative data ?

data that is expressed numerically and statistically

where is this data most likely to be collected

• lab experiments

• brain scans

• closed questionnaires

• correlations

An example of quantitative data is from…

• Peterson and peterson

• scores on Adorno’s f scale

• number of people who obeyed in Milgram’s study

What is qualitative ?

data that is expressed in detailed descriptions, words and images ; participants can give answers in their own words with no formal measure

Where is the data most likely to be collected from ?

• open questionnaire

• an observation

• unstructured interview

An example of qualitative data is ?

• the data Milgram collected from his participants about reasons as to why they obeyed

What is a weakness of qualitative data ?

• the data is viewed as less objective and more open to interpretation

• data is harder to replicate due to lack of control in methods, so Is not reliable

What os a strength of qualitative data ?

• data is often produced in natural circumstances so it is more ecologically valid as it relates to real life

• data produces rich, more detailed information with access to feelings and emotions

• this type of data allows the researcher to uncover reasons for the behaviour shown in quantitive results

• type of data can be converted into quantitative, which is not the same for the other type

what is a weakness of quantitative data ?

• data may produce narrow, unrealistic information which only focuses on small parts of behaviour

What is a strength of quantitative data ?

• data gives statistical results which can be tested and compared to a null hypothesis

• data can be easily represented in graphs and charts so it is easier to analyse

• data is viewed as more scientific and less open to interpretation