Qualitative versus Quantitative Research Methods - Term Paper Example

 Common tools utilized in qualitative research include interviews and observation (Henslin, 2005). A research practitioner using qualitative data will rely on their experience in a specific field of study to make determinations about the data achieved, often with a focus on sociology or psychology to emphasize the phenomenon of human actions and emotions. It is the most appropriate method for determining symbolic meanings in a culture or organization. Through data modeling or correlative research, the researcher can determine whether specific characteristics or attitudes exist in specific demographics.

For instance, the survey in quantitative research will often identify specific facts, such as gender, occupation, or political affiliation (Brians, Willnat, Manheim & Rich, 2011). Results of the questions asked can indicate whether any specific trends exist within a certain demographic or mean totals determined, when using ranking scales, to determine majority opinion in an identified sample group of respondents. The ability to take tangible facts and figures from the sample and measure their correlations to a belief can provide valuable, legitimized data results in this type of research.