RM

1. Table 8.3 Differences between quantitative and qualitative research methods.
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QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH QUALITATIVE RESEARCH
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Primary purpose is to determine Primary purpose is to describe on-
cause-and-effect relationships going processes
Precise hypothesis is stated before Hypotheses are developed during the
the start of the investigation; theories investigation; questions govern the
govern the purpose of the purpose of the investigation; theories
investigation in a deductive are developed inductively
manner
The independent variable is There is no specific independent
controlled and manipulated variable; the concern is to study
naturally occurring phenomena
without interference
Objective collection of data is a Objective collection of data is not a
requirement requirement; data collectors may
interact with the participants
Research design is specified before Research design is flexible and
the start of the investigation develops throughout the investigation
Data are represented and summarized Data are represented or summarized in
in numerical form narrative or verbal forms
Reliability and validity determined Reliability and validity determined
through statistical and logical through multiple sources of
methods information (triangulation)
Samples are selected to represent Samples are purposefully selected or
the population single cases are studied
Study of behavior is in the natural Study of behavior is in the natural
or artificial setting setting
Use of design or statistical analyses Use of logical analyses to control
to control for threats to internal or account for alternative
validity explanations
Use of inferential statistical Use of similar cases to determine the
procedures to demonstrate generalizability of findings (logical
external validity (specifically, generalization) if at all
population validity)
Rely on research design and data Rely on the researcher to come to
gathering instruments to control terms with procedural bias

2. for procedural bias
Phenomena are broken down or Phenomena are studied holistically,
simplified for study as a complex system
Conclusions are stated with a Conclusions are tentative and
predetermined degree of certainty subjected to ongoing examination
(i.e., α level)
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