Qualitative and quantitative research differ in their goals, data collection methods, and analysis techniques. Qualitative research aims to understand human behaviors, experiences, and motivations through observation and interpretation of verbal data, using inductive reasoning. Quantitative research seeks to establish relationships between variables and test hypotheses by collecting and analyzing numerical data statistically and deductively. Key differences include qualitative research being exploratory and holistic while quantitative research is conclusive and particularistic.

1. Qualitative VS quantitative research
NTA UGC NET PAPER-1 RESEARCH APTITUDE
Unit-II Class-9For –NET/SET/JRF
SAMEER CLASSES

2. Qualitative Research Quantitative Research
Qualitative research is a method
of inquiry that develops
understanding on human and
social sciences, to find the way
people think and feel.
Quantitative research is a
research method that is used to
generate numerical data and
hard facts, by employing
statistical, logical and
mathematical technique
Qualitative research is used to
gain an in-depth understanding
of human behaviour, experience,
attitudes, intentions, and
motivations, on the basis of
observation and interpretation.
It is used to establish cause
and effect relationship
between two variables by
using mathematical,
computational and statistical
methods. It is also known as
Empirical research

3. Qualitative Research Quantitative Research
Qualitative research is
holistic in nature
quantitative research is
particularistic in nature.
Verbal data are collected in
qualitative research
Numerical data is collected.
The qualitative research
follows a subjective
approach
whereas the approach of
quantitative research is
objective
The reasoning used to
synthesise data in qualitative
research is inductive
whereas in the case of
quantitative research the
reasoning is deductive.
Elements used in the analysis
of qualitative research are
words, pictures, and objects
in quantitative research is
numerical data is used.

4. Qualitative Research Quantitative Research
Qualitative research is
exploratory
Quantitative research is
conclusive.
Based on purposive sampling Based on random sampling
To explore and discover
ideas used in the on-going
processes.
To examine cause and effect
relationship between
variables.
Data collection- Non-
structured techniques like In-
depth interviews, group
discussions etc.
Data collection- Structured
techniques such as surveys,
questionnaires and
observations
Hypothesis is generated. Hypothesis is tested.

5. Qualitative Research Quantitative Research
Inquiry is Process-oriented Inquiry is result oriented
Result- Develops initial
understanding
Result- Recommends final
course of action
Unstructured structured