Scientific Research Methods: Quantitative vs. Qualitative

Research Environments: Field and Laboratory Settings

Research environments can be in the field or the laboratory.

Core Approaches to Scientific Research

• Empiricism
• Dialectical Materialism
• Positivism
• Phenomenology
• Structuralism

Integration of Qualitative and Quantitative Methods

The qualitative and quantitative approaches are complementary and enrich research; they are complemented or replaced in some cases:

1. Carry out observation and evaluation of phenomena.
2. Lay down assumptions or ideas as a consequence of observation and assessment.
3. Test and demonstrate the degree to which assumptions or ideas are unfounded.
4. Review such assumptions or ideas on the basis of evidence or analysis.
5. Propose new observations and assessments to establish, modify, cement, substantiate the ideas, overlap, and even generate new knowledge (SATO).

Characteristics of the Quantitative Approach

The quantitative approach is based on the deductive method and uses the collection and analysis of data to answer research questions and test hypotheses. It relies on numerical measurement, counting, and statistics to pinpoint a pattern of behavior in a population. It mainly seeks the dispersion or expansion of data. Quantitative studies are associated with experiments, surveys with closed questions, or studies that use standardized measurement instruments. These methods are consolidated as the prevailing international standard.

Characteristics of the Qualitative Approach

The qualitative approach is based on an inductive system. It is used to discover and refine research questions. Sometimes, a hypothesis does not necessarily need proof. It is largely based on collection methods without numerical measurement, such as non-numerical data collection methods (alerts and examiners). Its purpose is to reconstruct reality as seen by the actors in a pre-defined social system. It is often called holistic because it considers all aspects. It intentionally aims to accurately measure the information. Sometimes it is referred to as naturalistic inquiry, interpretive phenomenology, or ethnography, which includes a variety of techniques and quantitative studies. The process moves dynamically. The emphasis is not to measure the variables involved in the phenomenon but to understand them. The problem statement, objectives, questions, as well as any justification or hypothesis that arises in the process, involve the collection of data using techniques that do not seek measurement or numbers associated with such measurements, such as unstructured observation, open interviews, and document review.