This document compares and contrasts quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. It outlines key differences in their characteristics and criteria. Quantitative research is described as formal, objective, and deductive, relying on experimental data collection and statistical analysis. Qualitative research is informal, subjective, and inductive, using interpretive methods like interviews and observations to understand perspectives. Each type of methodology is best suited for different types of research questions and disciplinary usages.

1. Qualitative VS Quantitative
Research Methodologies, their
differences and uses

2. Quantitative VS Qualitative
DIFFERENCES

3. Quantitative
• Traditional
• Positivist
(researcher is independent from research)
• Experimental
• Empiricist(based on experiment and observation)

4. Qualitative
•Constructivist
•Interpretive
•Post positivist (theories, background,
knowledge and values of researcher can influence research)
•Post modern

5. Quantitative VS Qualitative
CHARACTERISTICS

6. Quantitative
• Objective • Value-free
• Formal • Unbiased
• Impersonal • Deductive
voice • Context free
• Set definitions

7. Qualitative
• Subjective • Value laden
• Informal • Biased
• Personal voice • Inductive
• Evolving • Context bound
decisions

8. Quantitative VS Qualitative
CRITERIA

9. Quantitative
• Technological writing skills
• Computer statistical skills
• Library skills
• Comfort with rules and guidelines of research
• Low tolerance for ambiguity
• Time for study of short duration
• Previously studied research; theories and
literature exists

10. Qualitative
• Literary writing skills
• Computer text-analysis skills
• Library skills
• Comfort with lack of specific rule of research
• High tolerance for ambiguity
• Time for lengthy study
• Exploratory research; may lack theory base

11. Quantitative VS Qualitative
USAGES

12. Quantitative: Qualitative:
Leaving Cert Geography Leaving Cert History
• Gathering of information; • Use of primary and
surveys, interviews, secondary sources
questionnaires • Draw conclusions from
• Use of measuring historical sources: eye
instruments witness accounts, public
• Careful recording of results records, memoirs, letters,
• Test results against existing maps, photographs, political
theories cartoons
• Draw conclusions relevant • Locate historical data from a
to aims or hypothesis no. of sources, evaluate and
collate relevant data

13. References:
• Clarke, R.J., (2005) Research Models and Methodologies [online].
HDR Seminar Series: Faculty of Commerce. Available at:
http://www.uow.edu.au/content/groups/public/@web/@commerc
e/documents/doc/uow012042.pdf (accessed 02/07/12)
• Department of Education and Science (2003) Leaving Cert History
Syllabus. Dublin: The Stationary Office. Available at:
http://www.education.ie/servlet/blobservlet/lc_history_sy.pdf?lang
uage=EN
• Department of Education and Science (2004) Leaving Cert
Geography Syllabus. Dublin: The Stationary Office. Available at:
http://www.education.ie/servlet/blobservlet/lc_geography_guideli
nes.pdf?language=EN