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Monday, January 16, 2017

Unit 2 Quantitative vs Qualitative Research

WilliamsonChp2.pdf
PyrczakAppendixAQuanQual.pdf 

Quantitative - statistical results with Results Section - statistical averages/percentages

Social & Behavioral Sciences 1900's => majority today

Characteristics

  • one or more specific, explicitly stated research hypotheses, narrow-focus
  • random sample representing larger population
  • large, 1500 for national
  • score objectively  - multiple choice / attitude scales
  • describe results using statistics, inferences to population source for sample
Further characterized by distance with limited contact researcher-participant
  • no direct contact
  • prearranged script
  • avoid unplanned personal characteristics
  • objective and distant
Qualitative - word usually included in title / introduction - within report

Social & Behavioral Sciences long tradition
Applied Sciences in recent decades

Results Section is narrative describing themes and trends, participant quotations

Characteristics
  • general question / problem with no hypotheses (may emerge later), subject to change with fluid interaction between data collection, data analysis and emerging hypotheses or theories
  • purposive sample, not random, intentionally drawn, appropriate to 'problem'
  • small sample, classroom, church etc.
  • unstructured instruments - semi-structured interview / unstructured direct observations
  • spend extended periods of time, in-depth insights / phenomena of interest
  • use words to understand particular sample, de-emphasis on generalizations to larger population
Further characterized by researchers awareness - orientation, bias, experiences
  • how these affect collection and interpretation
  • include statement on these issues and steps taken to see beyond to understand participants pov
  • personal and interactive








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