Admire S Mabhena Research Methods Ass 1

Two commonly used research methodologies in social sciences, natural sciences and humanities
are quantitative and qualitative. These methods differ in approach, data collection techniques,
analysis procedures and information aims. Qualitative research focuses on exploring a
phenomenon to gain deep understanding while investigating "why" or "how" people think, feel
or behave through the use of words as expressions to understand concepts thoughts experiences.
In contrast; measuring variables is the aim of quantitative research where testing specific
hypotheses are carried out with statistically significant relationships between them answered
using “how much,” “how many” or extent questions determining factors being measured for
confirmatory purposes when it comes to theories/hypotheses testing. The definition of
quantitative and qualitative research sets them apart in the most substantial ways. Additionally,
there are a few variations between these two methods of researching, which include.
Traits.
Qualitative: The distinctive feature of qualitative research is its focus on comprehending,
investigating the context of a subject matter, untangling intricacies and acknowledging subjective
impressions. It acknowledges that human experiences and actions are complex in nature, shaped
by distinct perspectives as well as situations.
Quantitative: Emphasizes testing hypotheses, measurement, objectivity and replicability. The
goal is to identify patterns and relationships that apply across a wider population through the use
of standardized measures as well as statistical methods.
Techniques for collecting data.

The following techniques are employed by qualitative research for collecting data in the study.
Interviews: Conducting interviews involves verbally asking respondents open-ended questions.
Focus Groups: A focus group is a gathering of individuals for the purpose of discussing a
particular subject and obtaining opinions that can be utilized in future research.
Ethnography: This is a process of participating in a community or organization for an extended
duration to meticulously examine culture and conduct.
Literature review: A literature review involves examining works published by other authors.
Conversely, quantitative research depends on mathematical and statistical evaluation of

information. Experts utilize various statistical procedures and tests to summarize essential data,
ascertain feasibilities, and derive logical inferences solely from numerical evidence. Here are
some commonly adopted approaches:
Survey: A survey is a set of pre-determined closed or multiple choice questions that are
disseminated to a sample audience through online, in-person, or phone methods.
Experiments: Conducting experiments involves controlling and manipulating various types of
variables to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
Observations: Observations involve observing subjects in a natural environment that cannot be
manipulated.
Data analysis and outcome.

Quantitative research outcomes are typically presented through tables, charts and statistical
reports that condense numerical patterns and correlations. Qualitative research involves the
analysis of non-numerical data, such as text, images or videos. To accomplish this task
effectively, researchers utilize techniques like thematic analysis and content analysis to identify
themes, patterns and trends in their collected information. By doing so they gain a deeper
understanding of their subject matter which allows them to interpret these findings more
effectively for further use in other areas.
Size of the sample.

In comparison to quantitative research, qualitative research typically uses a smaller sample size.
Its purpose is centered on attaining comprehensive insights, comprehension and nuances of a
particular concept or topic by using open-ended questions that aim at discovering participant
experiences and viewpoints in their richness and diversity. Because this method focuses majorly
on depth rather than breadth, it benefits from utilizing fewer participants; thus enabling
researchers to analyze individual stories with keenness for more detailed interpretation. Besides
other factors such as time consumption in data collection through methods like interviews and
focus groups make involving large numbers impractical too amidst resource constraints.
In general, quantitative research necessitates a substantial sample size as its objective is to assess,
quantify and apply outcomes on an extensive population. The methodology often centers on
structured surveys or closed-ended questions conducted through experiments that incorporate
statistical analysis in identifying patterns, trends and correlations amidst the larger specimen. Its
fundamental intention being formulating findings comprehensive enough to be applied across
bigger population demands attaining statistical significance alongside ensuring result reliability -
tasks made more practicable by involving an increased number of respondents which
successfully downsizes random variability impact while elevating confidence levels regarding
target populace applicability for all results obtained.
Varieties of Queries.
Qualitative research utilizes questions that are open-ended and prompt participants to share
comprehensive, personal insights within a contextual framework. By allowing respondents to use
their own words, this approach encourages the expression of individual perceptions and
experiences. Contrarily, quantitative research employs close-ended or multiple-choice prompts
with predetermined options for response elicitation which provides structured data points
conducive to disciplinary statistical analyses.
To sum up, qualitative research dives deep into exploring and comprehending various
phenomena. It aims to uncover the reasons behind people's thoughts, emotions or actions by
exploring the "why" and "how". Qualitative research is communicated using language; its
purpose lies in understanding concepts, ideas or experiences. Conversely, quantitative research
depends on mathematical calculations as well as statistical analysis of numerical data set. While
gathering information for analysis purposes - Quantitative Research makes use of figures while
Qualitative Research leans towards terms that embody meanings. Both methods hold significant
value when it comes to accumulating diverse types of knowledge.

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Two commonly used research methodologies in social sciences, natural sciences and humanities

Techniques for collecting data.

Conversely, quantitative research depends on mathematical and statistical evaluation of

Data analysis and outcome.

Size of the sample.

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