|
Aspect |
Quantitative
Research |
Qualitative
Research |
Mixed Method
Research |
|
Research Focus |
Numbers, measurable data |
Text, narratives, non-numeric data |
Combines both quantitative and qualitative
approaches |
|
Research Question |
Generally structured and specific |
Open-ended, exploratory |
Can be structured or open-ended, depending on the
design |
|
Data Collection
Methods |
Surveys, experiments, structured interviews |
Interviews, observations, focus groups |
Combination of surveys, experiments, interviews,
observations, etc. |
|
Sample Size |
Large samples, statistical significance |
Small samples, in-depth understanding |
Can vary, depending on the research design and
goals |
|
Data Analysis |
Statistical analysis, numerical patterns |
Thematic analysis, content analysis |
Both statistical analysis and qualitative analysis
techniques |
|
Generalization of
Findings |
Often aims for generalizability |
Context-specific, not always generalizable |
Can provide both generalizable and
context-specific findings |
|
Validity and
Reliability |
Emphasizes reliability and validity through
standardized measure |
Reliability is context-specific, validity through
triangulation |
Emphasizes both reliability and validity, using
multiple methods |
|
Role of
Researcher |
Objective, aims for neutrality |
Subjective, researcher's presence acknowledged |
Can be both objective and subjective, depending on
the research design |
|
Time Frame |
Typically shorter time frames for data collection
and analysis |
Longer time frames for in-depth understanding |
Can vary, depending on the research design and
methods used |
|
Purpose |
To test hypotheses, establish patterns |
To explore, understand social phenomena |
To gain a comprehensive understanding by combining
strengths of both approaches |
|
Examples |
Surveys on customer satisfaction, experimental
studies |
Ethnographic studies, case studies |
Sequential explanatory designs, concurrent designs |