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  • Essay / Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods - 2509

    IntroductionQualitative and quantitative research methods are generally applied in the field of social research. There has been much debate among researchers about the relative advantages between the two models, almost more than any other question of methodology. Quantitative research design encompasses methods that focus on numbers, that is, quantities. The data collected in this design is usually in the form of numbers which are then analyzed using statistical and mechanical methods. This concept is strongly associated with the scientific field, as in practical work carried out in the laboratory (Gall et al 2003). On the other hand, qualitative design normally uses words to explain broader concepts that cannot be grasped mathematically, such as beliefs, feelings, and intentions. The data collected in this design can take the form of words, field notes, and transcriptions. The data from this model cannot be understood mathematically (Timmons 2005). This article attempts to identify what can be considered marked differences and the importance of each method. Quantitative method This research involves the use of questions with predetermined response options (Bogdan and Biklen 1992). This research design uses a large number of respondents. The measurement in this conception must theoretically be objective, quantified and statistically valid. Due to the large number of respondents, the sampling method used is random. Before carrying out the research, the researcher applies a statistical method using formulas to determine the sample size which, when studied, would yield results within acceptable limits. Researchers using this method generally agree that the desired sample should produce results with a 95% confidence interval or there...... middle of article......, " Origins of randomization in experimental design”. Journal of Special Issue on Experiment & Artifact, 79 (3), pp.427-451. Jick, T 1979, “Mixing Quantitative & Qualitative methods. Triangulation in action”. Administrative Sciences Quarterly, 24, pp.602-611. Lather, P 1992, 'Critical frameworks in educational research'. From theory to practice, 31(2), pp.87–99. Schostak, J 2006. Interviews and Performances – Berkshire Qualitative Research Projects; Open University Press. Spector, P 1981. Research designs. Quantitative applications to the social sciences. London; Sage Publications. Timmons, S 2005. Qualitative and quantitative research. Internet. 21 March 2015. http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/nmp/sonet/rlos/ebp/qvq/3.html.Walker, W 2005, “The strengths and weaknesses of research designs involving quantitative measures” . Journal of Research Nursing, 10 (5), pp... 571-82