Quantitative and qualitative research

Characteristics of qualitative research:

1- Seeks to explain and find meaning in experiences 2- Usually takes an inductive approach; examines data and builds an understanding from the data 3- Uses un- or semi-structured data collection methods 4- Data collected is usually words or Language 5- Data collection methods include interviews, focus groups and observations that are less standardized; questions are typically open-ended allowing flexibility in response 6- Usually uses a small number of participants (less than 30) 7- Results are analyzed by organizing and interpreting information using categories, themes, and patterns that don't typically rely on statistics 8- Generally considered more subjective

Characteristics of quantitative research

1- Seeks to test hypotheses 2- sually takes a deductive approach; collects and examines data to see if relationships exist 3- Uses structured data collection methods 4- Data collected is usually Numbers 5- Uses standardized data collection methods including documentation of observations, questionnaires, laboratory tests, imaging, and other methods that can be coded and numerated 6- Usually involves a large number of participants (30 or more) 7- Results are usually analyzed using statistics 8- Generally considered more objective

Similarities between quantitative research and qualitative research

1-Both research traditions are rigorous in their methods. 2-Both demand the highest ethical standards in regard to the treatment of human subjects.

Strengths of qualitative research

1-It considers the feelings, attitudes, perceptions, and emotions that are important for understanding the human aspect of healthcare. 2-Issues can be examined in detail and depth. 3-Because data collection methods are usually less structured, it allows a researcher to be more responsive and adjust methods so they are appropriate to the situation; this allows the researcher to pursue the most relevant information. 4-The research framework and direction can be quickly revised as new information emerges. 5-Qualitative research requires smaller sample sizes; this makes it easier to collect data and complete the research in shorter time frames.

Advantages of mixed studies (qualitative and quantitative)

1-One approach can inform the other and be used to develop further research. For example, the results of qualitative interviews can be used to design a survey instrument for quantitative research. 2-Qualitative and quantitative data can be used to complement one another by adding words to numbers and vice versa. This helps with the interpretation and understanding of results. 3-Using qualitative and quantitative data together can create new lines of thinking by offering different and fresh perspectives.

Limitations of quantitative research:

1-Some things are not easily counted or measured (for instance emotions, feelings, experiences, and perceptions). 2-Sometimes our methods for measuring and counting clinical observations aren't very accurate. 3-Human beings are very complex; sometimes it is not possible to measure all important variables. 4-Quantitative research produces results in terms of "averages;" these maybe difficult to apply to an individual patient. 5-Important contextual detail of observations or results may be missed.

limitations of qualitative research

1-The volume of data produced from discussions and interviews is large; it can be time consuming to analyze. 2-The researcher tends to become subjectively immersed in the subject matter in an effort to analyze the results; this can introduce bias when results are being interpreted. 3-Data is usually collected from a few cases, which means findings cannot be generalized to the larger population. 4-Rigor is more difficult to maintain, assess, and demonstrate due to the flexibility and subjectivity associated with the data collection methods. 5-It is not as well recognized as quantitative research; it is therefore difficult to convince others of the importance of its contributions.

Strengths of quantitative research

1-Through measuring and counting, precise estimates and observation can be made. 2-If done well, bias is minimized, which makes the research more objective. 3-The results can be analyzed statistically; this allows researchers to determine to what extent results or observations are due to chance. 4-Hypotheses can be tested. 5-The results can be generalized or applied to other, similar populations.

what is qualitative research?

it describes observations and relationships by analyzing perceptions, emotions and behaviors generally expressed through language. Qualitative research takes the position that it is less important to discover what is "real" than it is to understand what contributes to peoples' subjective understanding of reality.

what is quantitative research?

it uses structured methods to describe an observation or relationship in numerical terms. It is based on the assumption that reality can and should be measured. Most basic science and clinical research is quantitative