This document compares and contrasts quantitative and qualitative research. Quantitative research uses numeric data from structured instruments to test hypotheses and make generalizable conclusions. It examines quantities, trends and relationships. Qualitative research relies on text data from open-ended interviews and observations to understand social interactions. It explores qualities and complex behaviors. Key differences are that quantitative research has larger randomly selected groups, aims to predict and be objective, while qualitative research has smaller non-random groups, aims to explain and understand with a subjective perspective.