Qualitative and quantitative studies both exist in the world of research. However, they both play very different roles. Quantitative studies go out into the world with a measuring tape and a particular focus of things that need to be measured and related to each other , while qualitative studies look at the world at a whole and then look at a specific thing with a magnifying glass. They each have their own history and purpose and can be used in combination. In this essay I 'll be looking at how the scientific method of quantitative research measures its variable strictly and with the aim for it to be repeatable with the same or similar results and how this differs from the qualitative method which is a snap shot of a particular time and place
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As such it views the world as objectively measurable (Alston & Bowles, 2012). The scientific method strives for objectively that produces knowledge through the employment of rules and techniques that can be replicated by other researchers ( Yegidis). In order to make experiments replicable surveys, questionnaires and structured observations are the main techniques used to collect data (Alston & Bowles, 2012). It assumes that because its research is structured anyone studying similar social phenomena will have the same findings. An example of this is Botta, Cadet and Maramaldi 's study on group of social work students where they surveyed 34 students a week before and after receiving mindfulness training based on the theory of planned behaviour and social cognitive theory. The survey data was used to measure change in the students level of mindfulness before and after the training compiled with a paired sample test, which resulted in an measurable outcome. In theory this data could be replicated with the next years batch of students as long as the same 27 point survey was …show more content…
In the end as long as a project takes a step forward in the right direction, even if it is only a baby step, it is still beneficial to the research community.
Overall both Quantitative and Qualitative methods both have their own positives and negatives and its best to use the right research method for the right situation. Quantitative methods are best used when one has extensive prior knowledge and defined variables, while qualitative methods are good for gathering knowledge and defining emotional meanings. They can be used in combination to great effect but any study undertaken must take place within a set time in order for its information to be as relevant as
As such it views the world as objectively measurable (Alston & Bowles, 2012). The scientific method strives for objectively that produces knowledge through the employment of rules and techniques that can be replicated by other researchers ( Yegidis). In order to make experiments replicable surveys, questionnaires and structured observations are the main techniques used to collect data (Alston & Bowles, 2012). It assumes that because its research is structured anyone studying similar social phenomena will have the same findings. An example of this is Botta, Cadet and Maramaldi 's study on group of social work students where they surveyed 34 students a week before and after receiving mindfulness training based on the theory of planned behaviour and social cognitive theory. The survey data was used to measure change in the students level of mindfulness before and after the training compiled with a paired sample test, which resulted in an measurable outcome. In theory this data could be replicated with the next years batch of students as long as the same 27 point survey was …show more content…
In the end as long as a project takes a step forward in the right direction, even if it is only a baby step, it is still beneficial to the research community.
Overall both Quantitative and Qualitative methods both have their own positives and negatives and its best to use the right research method for the right situation. Quantitative methods are best used when one has extensive prior knowledge and defined variables, while qualitative methods are good for gathering knowledge and defining emotional meanings. They can be used in combination to great effect but any study undertaken must take place within a set time in order for its information to be as relevant as