Module 3 Assignment 1

Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Below is a chart that further differentiates quantitative and qualitative research methodologies:

	Quantitative	Qualitative
Approach	Is deductive (primarily) and then inductive	Is inductive (primarily) and then deductive
Purpose	Tests theories, makes predictions, establishes facts, and tests hypotheses	Describes multiple realities, develops a deep understanding, and captures everyday life and human perspectives
Research focus	Isolates variables, uses large samples, and collects data using tests and formal instruments	Examines the full context, interacts with a limited number of participants, and collects data face-to-face from participants
Research goals	Confirms or disconfirms theory Finds central tendency, what is common Tests hypotheses Classifies participants Uses statistics Researches on participants	Examines lived experiences Is particular and idiosyncratic Transforms society Empowers participants Has a rich description Researches with and for participants
Research plan	Is developed before the study is initiated Is a structured, formal proposal	Begins with an initial idea that evolves as the researcher learns more about the participants and setting Is a flexible and tentative proposal
Data analysis	Is mainly statistical and quantitative	Is mainly interpretive and descriptive
Results presentation	Involves a formal writing style and impersonal voice	Involves a less formal writing style and personal voice