Doing research can become confusing when one does not know where to start. Having a basis for understanding different kind of research helps with the beginning processes of any study. This paper we will be discussing the differences in Qualitative and Quantitative research and specifically what types of research is helpful for studies in education. Along with the definitions I will discuss what is a primary resource and the importance it has in research.
Bryman defines qualitative research as “a research strategy that usually emphasizes words rather than quantification in the collection and analysis of data (Bryman 2008a: 366)”
This explanation of qualitative research, is very direct, which makes it easy to understand. It compares it to quantitative …show more content…
In quantitative research one finds themselves answering their questions through a process known as the scientific approach. “Quantitative research is scientific investigation that includes both experiments and other systematic methods that emphasize control and quantified measures of performance (Proctor & Capaldi, 2006).” (Wayne p. 1) Like qualitative research, there is a question, but instead of gathering data by speaking directly with the subject, one uses a more mathematical and independent approach from the subject. Wayne goes on to discuss that in quantitative research it is important to be able to recreate the test so others may attempt it and achieve the same answer. The challenge in education is that the variables are always changing and because of this limits the research to only non experimental research. In the previous example for the effect of problem-solving and curriculum focus, the pre and post questionnaires divided into different groups (race, sex, age…) will give some statistical value and control to the study. Having tests also helps to track where the students levels are, though there are variables that can not be controlled, like the student’s ability to take a
Bryman defines qualitative research as “a research strategy that usually emphasizes words rather than quantification in the collection and analysis of data (Bryman 2008a: 366)”
This explanation of qualitative research, is very direct, which makes it easy to understand. It compares it to quantitative …show more content…
In quantitative research one finds themselves answering their questions through a process known as the scientific approach. “Quantitative research is scientific investigation that includes both experiments and other systematic methods that emphasize control and quantified measures of performance (Proctor & Capaldi, 2006).” (Wayne p. 1) Like qualitative research, there is a question, but instead of gathering data by speaking directly with the subject, one uses a more mathematical and independent approach from the subject. Wayne goes on to discuss that in quantitative research it is important to be able to recreate the test so others may attempt it and achieve the same answer. The challenge in education is that the variables are always changing and because of this limits the research to only non experimental research. In the previous example for the effect of problem-solving and curriculum focus, the pre and post questionnaires divided into different groups (race, sex, age…) will give some statistical value and control to the study. Having tests also helps to track where the students levels are, though there are variables that can not be controlled, like the student’s ability to take a