Difference Between Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches - Essay Example

Qualitative research is applicable in situations where a researcher is not clear about what he is looking for, and, therefore, he uses the collected data to determine the most and least important data. In a qualitative study, the aim of the research may become clearer as the research progresses. The methods of data collection vary using semi-structured or unstructured techniques. Qualitative data collection methods include group discussions, observations, and interviews. The sample size used in qualitative research is, usually, small with the respondents being selected to fulfill a certain quota (Taylor, 2005). Analyzing qualitative data is a bit difficult, and the researcher must come up with an accurate description of the responses given. Quotations from interviews or diaries can be used to exemplify analysis points.

Quantitative research

On the other hand, quantitative analysis quantifies a problem by collecting numerical data, and the research transforms it into usable information. This research method is used to quantify behaviors, attitudes, and opinions. Unlike in qualitative research where the sample population is, usually, small, in qualitative research generalization of results is typically from a large sample population. This type of analysis uses measurable data, and the collection techniques are more structured than in a qualitative approach. The data collection methods include mobile surveys, online surveys, telephone interviews, and kiosk surveys among others (Monsen, Van & American Dietetic Association, 2008). Unlike in qualitative research, data is collected in numeric form or measured using measurement units. A researcher constructs tables and graphs of raw data during data analysis.