Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research

Paper Summary:

The paper identifies the distinct features and goals of qualitative vs. quantitative research styles. The paper then explains the types of qualitative research, namely, phenomenology and ethnography and types of quantitative research, namely, experimental and quasi-experimental types and the use of a descriptive study. The paper relates that mixing qualitative and quantitative research designs are far better than using one over the other.

From the Paper:

"Two types or research styles have been utilized by researchers for years. The Qualitative research style is a method wherein the primary goal is to give a detailed description of a phenomenon or an event (Neill, 2007). It deals with finding answers on a social or human issue from different perspectives. It has no rigid truth; its findings depend largely on how or what the person experiences during that time. An example of a qualitative research was that conducted by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross in 1969, wherein she interviewed a number of patients who were dying. From these interviews, she was able to come up with theories on the stages of dying. On the other hand, the Quantitative research style is more precise and objective in its methods and intention. It aims to classify, count and construct statistical models to explain the observed phenomena."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Borkan, J. M. (2004). "Editorial: Mixed Method Studies: A Foundation for Primary Research." Annals of Fam Med, 2(1), 4-6.
• Karkos, B. & Peters, K. (2006). "A Magnet Community Hospital: Fewer Barriers to Nursing Research Utilization." Journal of Nursing Administration. 36(7-8):377-382.
• Neill, J. (2007, Feb 28). Qualitative versus Quantitative Research: Key Points in a Classic Debate. [Online.] Retrieved 25 Jan 2008 from the Web site: http://wilderdom.com/research/QualitativeVersusQuantitativeResearch.html.
• Trochim, W. M. K. (2006). The Qualitative-Quantitative Debate. [Online.] Retrieved 26 Jan 2008 from the Web site: http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/qualdeb.php.

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