Qualitative Research Design and Methods

Qualitative Research Design and Methods

Introduction

There has been a general discussion in many of the social disciplines concerning the comparative qualities of quantitative and qualitative strategies for inquiry. The stances undertaken by investigators diverge significantly, from individuals who observe the two approaches as completely separate and based upon optional viewpoints of the globe, to those who are pleased to combine these approaches in their research (Creswell, 2003). This paper will present similarities and differences of Quantitative and Qualitative approaches and simplify the status of qualitative methodologies in the discipline of Public Policy and Administration.

Discussion

Similarities

Both inquiry methods are created as distinctive study procedures.

Both methodologies look to discover the information from a background or circumstances.

Both methodologies begin from the interests of the investigators (they decide what to investigate as a subject matter and field of investigation). They begin with an inquiry based upon their concentration in a particular discipline.

Both methodologies continue to be unprejudiced and compelling, showing an exact depiction. If the facts were prejudiced, then both methodologies would not be commanding .To remain in control, both methodologies incorporate unbiased and fair data.



Differences

Only quantifiable facts are being collected and inspected in quantitative method. Qualitative method stresses on collection of oral data somewhat than dimensions. Collected data is then inquired in an interpretative way, prejudiced and generalized. Here is a more comprehensive contrast among them:

Goal of the Study: The main aim of a Qualitative Study is to offer a comprehensive account of the research subject. It is generally more investigative in character. Whereas, Quantitative study stresses more in computing and categorizing elements and creating numerical patterns to clarify what is pragmatic.

Use: Qualitative approach is perfect for early stages of research whilst for the concluding phase of the study, Quantitative approach is suggested. As it offers the investigator a ...