Strengths and Weaknesses of Qualitative and Quantitative Research - Essay Example

Qualitative and quantitative research both have their strengths and weaknesses as well and their contributions to analyzing various issues have a unique and conclusive approach. That being said, it is quantitative research that I am more drawn to. The exploratory and in-depth analyses that it entails seem to offer much more in terms of formulating an understanding of a certain concept. Compared to the open and personal elements that qualitative research comprises qualitative research is more prone towards numbers, formulas, and models that determine a basic link between variables. I feel that qualitative research merely scratches the surface whereas qualitative research dives deep into the problem and looks at the personal experiences of participants through the use of surveys and interviews all of which aim at analyzing thoughts and emotions attached to the issue under investigation. Having always been drawn to words, images, and descriptions basing a perspective on numbers has never appealed to me. Furthermore, I feel as a researcher the contribution that you can put into qualitative research has a more unique and challenging touch to it as you get to know your subjects for what they truly are; compared to that quantitative research seems dry as you analyze and compare numbers and formulas to conclude.

Assignment 4

The argument presented by the writer is much like that of my own opinion when it comes to the debate of qualitative vs. quantitative research. It brings to my mind this interesting article that I had read online called ‘The Qualitative-Quantitative Debate’, during my research. It talks about how the debate between the differences between and relative advantages of qualitative and quantitative methods has been one on which considerable energy has been expended. So much so that it is referred to as a ‘hot-button’ issue in social research. It then goes on to deliver an interesting perspective to the issue (one that I found very fascinating) about there being little differences between qualitative and quantitative data. The pillars for the writer’s argument are firstly that ‘All qualitative data can be coded quantitatively’, that is, anything that is qualitative can be assigned meaningful numerical values. Second, All quantitative data is based on qualitative judgment that is numbers in and of themselves can't be interpreted without understanding the assumptions that underlie them.

Response to Professor Assignment 1.

I understand the common error I made during the formulation of my research question merely because I associated qualitative research questions firmly with their nature to investigate why something is the way it is. However as far as Creswell's (2009) suggestion that we avoid using the word ‘why’ I will reformulate by question from: ‘Why do juveniles commit crimes?’ to ‘What are the reasons that contribute to juveniles' ability to commit crimes?’ 

I went through the aspect of interpretive inquiry again and I see how I overlooked certain key aspects. What I meant despite my confusion is that to conduct my research I will carry out a qualitative study that will observe, explore, and understand the meaning of groups ascribed to a problem (Creswell, 2009). Although initially, case study was my mode of selection because of the in-depth analysis of the variables now that I review my work I think Narrative inquiry would be a lot more appropriate. Utilizing interviews and reviews as means of data gathering will enable me to gain information directly from the participants to carry out my research effectively.