Quantitative Research
- Focuses on numerical data and statistics
- Structured tools like surveys and experiments
- Uses large, representative samples
- Analyzed through statistical methods
- Answers “what”, “how many”, “how often”
Common Methods:
- Surveys with closed-ended questions
- Experiments
- Structured observations
- Secondary data analysis
Qualitative Research
- Focuses on meanings, behaviors, and experiences
- Uses interviews, focus groups, observations
- Smaller, targeted samples
- Analyzed through themes and narratives
- Answers “why”, “how”, “in what way”
Common Methods:
- In-depth interviews
- Focus groups
- Ethnographic studies
- Content or thematic analysis
Comparison Table
| Aspect | Quantitative | Qualitative |
|---|---|---|
| Data Type | Numeric (e.g., percentages, counts) | Textual (e.g., narratives, descriptions) |
| Objective | Measure and quantify phenomena | Explore and understand phenomena |
| Sample Size | Large, statistically representative | Small, purposefully selected |
| Data Collection Tools | Surveys, experiments, checklists | Interviews, focus groups, observations |
| Data Analysis | Statistical tests and models | Thematic or narrative analysis |
| Research Outcome | Patterns, generalizations, trends | Insights, depth, contextual understanding |