The Difference between Quantitative Research

and Qualitative Research

Many researchers think quantitative research and qualitative

research can be used interchangeably. Both terms are different
types of research and both are used in marking, sociology,
psychology, public health and various other disciplines. So what
is the difference between both of them?
The following steps show the differences between the two
terms:

 Quantitative research is used to quantify the data by way

of generating (numerical) that can be transformed into
useable statistics. However, qualitative Research is used
for exploring using words rather than numbers. It helps
researchers gain an understanding of underlying reasons,
opinions and motivations.
 Quantitative research is concerned with measurement of a
market or population whereas, qualitative research is
harder to define but the emphasis is on understanding
rather than simple measurement.
 Quantitative research is objective it provides observed
effects (interpreted by researchers). Compared to
qualitative research is more subjective it describes a
problem or condition from the point of view.
  Qualitative provides insights into the problem or helps to
develop ideas or hypotheses on the other hand, quantitative
research is used to quantify attitudes, opinions, behaviors
and generalize results from larger sample population.
 Quantitative data collection methods are much more
structured; they include various forms of surveys,
interviews and systemic observations. Whereas, qualitative
data collection methods are unstructured or semi-
structured. Common methods include focus groups,
interviews and observations.

In the table below, the main differences of these different

research methods are outlined:

Quantitative Qualitative
Level of occurrence Depth of understanding
Objective Subjective
Asks "how many" or "how
Asks "why"
much"
Describes Interprets
Number-based word-based
More generalizable Less generalizable
Studies events Studies motivations
Statistical tests are used for
No statistical tests
analysis
More definitive Exploratory in nature
Discovery and proof Enables discovery
 To sum up, both types provide a clear understanding of what
is being studied. Both types "together" provide a better
understanding of a research than either type by itself, so mixed
methods research is a good design to use to build on the
strengths of quantitative research and qualitative research.

References

https://snapsurveys.com
https://dovetailapp.com
https://b2binternational.com

Done by:
Eman Mrajaa Mohammed 8735