Notes on Research Design: Quantitative & Qualitative Approaches

Introduction to Research Design

Research design encompasses both quantitative and qualitative research approaches, each with distinct characteristics.

Quantitative Research

  • Definition: Involves collecting numeric data from participants to answer specific questions.
  • Characteristics:
    • Objective and unbiased analysis.
    • Focuses on large sample sizes for statistical relevance.
    • Examples include surveys and experiments.

Qualitative Research

  • Definition: Involves gathering non-numeric data (words/text) to explore participant perspectives.
  • Characteristics:
    • Subjective and often biased analysis.
    • Focuses on smaller samples to develop deeper insights.
    • Examples include interviews, ethnographies, and narratives.

Differences Between Quantitative and Qualitative Research

  • Research Problem Identification:
    • Quantitative: Specific and narrow.
    • Qualitative: Broad and exploratory.
  • Literature Review Role:
    • Quantitative: Major role; justifies research problem.
    • Qualitative: Minor role; may not specify the research need.
  • Data Collection:
    • Quantitative: Large numeric data sets; predetermined instruments.
    • Qualitative: Small, textual, or image-based data.
  • Data Analysis:
    • Quantitative: Statistical analysis to identify trends or relationships.
    • Qualitative: Thematic analysis to uncover deeper meanings.

Research Designs in Quantitative Research

  1. Experimental Design: Tests the effect of interventions.
  2. Correlational Design: Examines relationships between variables.
  3. Survey Design: Describes trends within populations using surveys.

Research Designs in Qualitative Research

  1. Grounded Theory: Develops theories based on common themes.
  2. Ethnographic: Studies cultural groups in their natural settings.
  3. Narrative Research: Tells individual stories to convey experiences.
  4. Case Study: In-depth studies of specific contemporary cases.
  5. Phenomenological Research: Describes shared meanings of experiences among individuals.

Combined Research Design

  1. Mixed Method Design: Integrates both quantitative and qualitative data for a comprehensive understanding.
  2. Action Research: Uses both data types to address practical problems in educational settings, aiming for local improvements.