ED 303 Handout Quanti vs. Quali

ED 303 – Methods of Research in Education
TOPIC: Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research
I. OBJECTIVES:
At the end of the discussion, the students are expected to:
 Identify the key features and characteristics of Quantitative and Qualitative research.
 Differentiate between Quantitative and Qualitative research methods based on their
purpose, data collection, and analysis techniques.
 Apply appropriate research methods—whether Quantitative or Qualitative—based on the
research objectives, data requirements, and chosen instruments, such as questionnaires.
II. PROMPTING QUESTIONS:

1. What comes to mind when you hear the terms "qualitative research" and "quantitative
research"?
2. During our JHS/SHS days we have experienced how to do research, what is the method
you picked in gathering data? And as a proponent of the specific research what are the
factors you considered that pushes you to choose that research method?
3. If you had the chance to buy a car, what factors would guide your choice? Would you
focus more on how many units the car has sold or on reviews and feedback from other car
owners?
III.DISCUSSION
Introduction
In research, two primary methods—qualitative and quantitative—are widely used to gather and
analyze data. These two approaches are different but complementary, each serving distinct
purposes depending on the nature of the research question. Below is a detailed explanation of
both methods, including their key characteristics, uses, and differences.
QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH
Quantitative research focuses on collecting and analyzing numerical data. It is ideal for studies
that aim to measure variables, find patterns, and test hypotheses. This method is commonly used
in fields such as the natural sciences, economics, medicine, and psychology.
Key Features:
 Objective Data: This approach seeks to quantify the problem by generating numerical
data or data that can be transformed into usable statistics.
 Structured Tools: Researchers use standardized tools such as surveys, questionnaires, or
experiments, ensuring that data is collected consistently.
 Statistical Analysis: The data gathered is analyzed using statistical methods to uncover
relationships, patterns, or trends.
 Large Sample Sizes: Typically, quantitative research requires larger sample sizes to
achieve statistical validity.
Examples of Quantitative Research:
 A study investigating the average height of individuals in a population.
 A survey measuring customer satisfaction across 1,000 respondents.
 Clinical trials determining the effectiveness of a new drug.
Advantages:
 Generalizability: Findings from large samples can be generalized to a larger population.
 Reliability: The use of standardized methods ensures consistency and repeatability.
 Objectivity: Quantitative research minimizes researcher bias due to its numerical focus.
Limitations:
 Lack of Depth: While quantitative methods excel at answering "how much" or "how
many," they often fall short in providing in-depth understanding.
 Fixed Responses: Surveys and questionnaires typically limit respondents to pre-
determined answers, which may not capture the complexity of human behavior.
QUALITATIVE RESEARCH
Qualitative research is used to explore concepts, experiences, or meanings in depth, focusing
on understanding phenomena from the perspective of participants. This method is often used in
the social sciences, including sociology, anthropology, and education, where complex human
behaviors and interactions are studied.
Key Features:
 Descriptive Data: It deals with non-numerical data such as interviews, observations, and
texts. The goal is to understand participants' experiences, opinions, and emotions.
 Flexible Methods: Researchers often adapt their methods during the study, allowing
them to explore emerging themes and insights.
 Small Sample Sizes: Studies tend to involve fewer participants, but the depth of
information obtained is much greater.
 Thematic Analysis: The analysis of qualitative data involves identifying recurring
themes, patterns, or narratives rather than statistical analysis.
Examples of Qualitative Research:
 Interviews with teachers to explore their experiences with remote teaching during a
pandemic.
 Focus groups discussing consumer perceptions of a new product.
 Observational studies of social interactions in a public space.
Advantages:
 In-depth Insights: Qualitative research provides rich, detailed understanding of
participants' thoughts and behaviors.
 Flexibility: Researchers can adapt their methods to explore unexpected findings during
the study.
 Contextual Understanding: It offers a comprehensive view of the context in which
behaviors and opinions occur.
Limitations:
 Subjectivity: The researcher’s interpretation plays a significant role, making it difficult
to avoid bias completely.
 Non-generalizable: Findings from qualitative research are often context-specific and
cannot easily be generalized to larger populations.
 Time-consuming: The process of collecting and analyzing qualitative data is more time-
intensive than quantitative research.
KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

Both methods aim to answer research questions, but they do so using different approaches.
Here's a comparison of their main differences:
Aspect Quantitative Research Qualitative Research
Numerical (e.g., percentages, Descriptive (e.g., words, meanings,

Nature of Data
frequencies) narratives)
To quantify variables and generalize To explore concepts and gain deeper

Objective
results understanding
Large, representative of the Small, non-representative but rich in

Sample Size
population detail
Research Tools Surveys, questionnaires, experiments Interviews, focus groups, observations
Data Analysis Statistical analysis, graphs, tables Thematic analysis, narrative analysis
Aspect Quantitative Research Qualitative Research
Research Structured and fixed from the Flexible and adaptable during the
Flexibility beginning research process
Measurable outcomes, generalizable Contextual insights, deep understanding

Outcome
conclusions of phenomena
WHEN TO USE QUANTITATIVE VS. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

The choice between qualitative and quantitative methods depends largely on the research
question, objectives, and available resources.
Quantitative Research is best suited for:
 Research that seeks to measure variables or test hypotheses.
 Studies that aim to identify relationships, patterns, or trends among large groups.
 Situations where numerical data is required for statistical analysis.
Example: If you want to determine how many people prefer Product A over Product B in a
market, a quantitative survey would be ideal.
Qualitative Research is best suited for:
 Exploratory research where little is known about the subject.
 Studies that aim to understand complex social interactions, behaviors, or attitudes.
 When detailed descriptions and contextual insights are required.
Example: If you are studying how individuals cope with a chronic illness, in-depth interviews
can provide valuable personal insights.
MIXED METHODS: THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Many researchers opt to combine both qualitative and quantitative methods in a mixed-methods
approach. This allows them to leverage the strengths of both approaches while compensating for
their individual limitations.
Examples of Mixed Methods Research:
 A researcher might conduct a large-scale quantitative survey to measure customer
satisfaction and then follow up with qualitative interviews to explore why customers feel
the way they do.
 In a medical study, quantitative data from clinical tests may be supplemented with
qualitative interviews to better understand patients' experiences with the treatment.
Conclusion
Both qualitative and quantitative research have their unique strengths and are often
complementary in providing a fuller understanding of a research problem. Quantitative research
excels in providing measurable, generalizable data, while qualitative research is invaluable for
gaining deeper insights into human experiences and behaviors. The choice between the two (or
the combination of both) depends on the research goals, questions, and the type of data needed.
By carefully considering the strengths and limitations of each method, researchers can choose the
approach that best fits their study's needs, ensuring the most accurate and meaningful results.
IV. REFERENCES:
https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/qualitative-quantitative-research/#:~:text=and
%20quantitative%20research-,Quantitative%20research%20deals%20with%20numbers%20and
%20statistics%2C%20while%20qualitative%20research,to%20answer%20a%20research
%20question.
Prepared by:
Bitong, Alesa
Cadivida, Elisil H.
Cuizon, Jinly Mae B.
Culi, Joanna A.
Duran, Mary Raigne D.

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ED 303 – Methods of Research in Education

TOPIC: Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research

II. PROMPTING QUESTIONS:

KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

Numerical (e.g., percentages, Descriptive (e.g., words, meanings,

To quantify variables and generalize To explore concepts and gain deeper

Large, representative of the Small, non-representative but rich in

Research Tools Surveys, questionnaires, experiments Interviews, focus groups, observations

Measurable outcomes, generalizable Contextual insights, deep understanding

WHEN TO USE QUANTITATIVE VS. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

MIXED METHODS: THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

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