Quantitative Research: Its Characteristics and Data-Gathering Methods

QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH – Below is a guide on the characteristics and data-gathering methods under this research approach.

There are two (2) main approaches in doing a research study – the quantitative research and the qualitative research. Each of them has a different set of data-gathering methods and entirely differ from another.

RESEARCH: Quantitative Vs. Qualitative Research – Their Differences

Differences Between Quantitative & Qualitative Research Types

RESEARCH TYPES – Here are the differences between the two(2) types of research which are the quantitative and qualitative research.

A lot of courses in college require a research study including education and hotel and restaurant management. Although the requirement may somehow differ among courses, it is vital in most courses for curriculum completion.

With regards to research, there are five(5) parts that are generally observed regardless of the course of the researcher. They are the introduction, the review of the related literature, the methodology, the results, and the discussion.

There are sub-sections in every part of the research. With regards to the types, there are two(2) research types – the quantitative and the qualitative research.

Research Types
Photo Courtesy of Imperial College London

In this article, we will tackle the differences between the quantitative type of research and the qualitative research.

Quantitative Research:

Based on an article on Snap, this type of research quantifies the problem with the use of numerical data generation for statistics. There are numbers involved in this research. This type is “more structure” than the qualitative research and the methods of data collection may include:

  • Face-to-Face Interviews
  • Surveys (Online, Kiosk, Mobile, etc.)
  • Website Interceptors
  • Polls

Qualitative Research:

According to the article, opposite to the quantitative research is the qualitative research which is an “exploratory” type of study. It is often utilized in the purpose of gaining a deeper understanding of factors related to the study.

This type of research provides insights to the problem and helps come up with hypothesis that can be used for a quantitative research. Based on the article, its data collection may include the following:

  • Individual Interviews
  • Observations
  • Group Discussions

So those are the two(2) types of research. Meanwhile, nowadays, a lot of researches are utilizing both types in a single study. The latter is usually for the interview part of the study.

We’re pleased to have helped you on your inquiry regarding the differences between quantitative and qualitative research.

Thank you for visiting us. Rest assured we’ll continue to post informative updates regarding this matter.

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