Qualitative, quantitative and mixed research methods are the major types of research approaches our scientists fraternity use. Each of them have different role and purpose in conducting research. In this piece of writing, “Understanding types of research methods” You will get better clarity of each of them.
Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research methods are usually used in research process. In this article, first of all, I’m going to explain each one sequence, and then will try to differentiate them.
Qualitative research methods
It is also called open ended, inductive research method . Open ended means it doesn’t depend on rigid set of question set. Instead, it gives participants total freedom to answer in there’s own ways. It seeks variety in possibilities of answers.
Major characteristics of qualitative research
a) Open ended questions
The purpose of open ended question is to generate detailed information about research problm. It values participants opinion and thoughts. Loaded, leading, probing, Rhetorical, close and open ended questions are the types of questions we use as per requirement.
Open-ended questions demand or ask more details of topic you quizzed. Whereas, closed questions seek black and white response either yes or no.
b) Inductive reasoning
All the quantitative research methods are based on inductive reasoning. It means by observing specific phenomenon, one can reach at the general conclusion.
So, naturally, the purpose of inductive research approach is to develop new theories by observing specific data. Also, it is known as bottom up approach. Like, specific observations to broader generalizations.
c) Flexible research methodology
As we discussed earlier that this methods uses interviewing, observation, discussions, empathy in cultural setting to collect data. Unless researcher gets proper insight of phenomenon, it is hardly possible to answer research question. There is not any restrictions on the answering participants as well.
d) Formation of research question
Research question acts as guiding engine for investigation. So, it should be specific and well informed. You know that the purpose of qualitative research is to find why and how of phenomenon in question.
e) data collection, interpretation
Gathered data is analysed property by interpreting each and every minute. After analysis and interpretation, the key findings are used for generalization. The patterns, insight, and relationship are used to answer research question.
f) Origin of new theory
This is the completion of qualitative research methodology. Its purpose is to develop new theories by the mentioned process. Now, let’s know in detail the quantitative research approach.
Quantitative research methods
Unlike qualitative research, quantitative research approach relies on statistical data to measure phenomenon. In other words, statistical data is used to find patterns, relationship, facts to test hypothesis. Let’s see some major characteristics of quantitative research methodology.
Feature of quantitative research methodology.
a) closed ended question
Quantitative research approach uses closed ended questions to seek information. Whether it is a open or closed ended question, these act as a driving force of communication. The aim of questions is to bring out unknown things or ideas at the surface.
Closed ended question is a response seeking or fact finding means for survey or research. By this approach, relevant, exact, and one word answers or facts can be obtained. With quantitative methods such as surveys and ques-tionnaires, for example, researchers ask all participants identical questions in the same order.
b) Deductive reasoning approach
It is used to test existing theories in the light of existing collected data. It may be documents, papers, any official data, etc. Deductive research approach is also called top down approach.
Deductive reasoning is used to test a hypothesis by logical reasoning from moving general to specific conclusions.
c) Types of quantitative research methods:
Surveys, Questionnaires, experiments, and observational studies are major types of quantitative research methods widely used.
d) No flexibility
Participants have no option to express their opnions or influence questions being asked. There is no flexibility. Because, only closed ended questions are asked.
e) Formation of hypothesis
In qualitative research, research question acts as guiding engine for research. But, in quantitative research, hypothesis is formed. Hypothesis is a logical untested guess but can be tested. It ushers the whole research in correct direction.
f) Data collection
Statistical data is collected by surveys, questionnaires, experiments and strict observations. Further, data is analysed to find patterns, trends, and relationship. Purpose is to test hypothesis by the findings.
g) Drawing conclusions and making generalization
This is the last steps in the quantitative research approach. Now, let’s understand mixed research methods.
Mixed research methodology
Mixed research approach uses both qualitative as well as quantitative research approaches judiciously to explore best results. It is one of the best method.
As a qualitative research, it uses non-numerical measures like beliefs, attitudes, and experiences, often gathered through case study, interviews or focus groups.
Also, it uses quantitative research to collect numerical data, such as scores, percentages, and statistical measures, by the means of surveys, experiments, and observations.
Empirical research is an example of mixed research. This method is mainly used when problem is complex and demand more speciality. This is all about understanding types of research methods.
Last words on understanding types of research methods,
So far, we have learnt about different research methods or methodologies. Now you might have gained some insights about qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research methods. The purpose, role, procedure of each one is different from other. In the next article, I will explain all the methods in a more systematic manner. So, be with us.
Open ended and closed ended questions
Steps in qualitative research methodology
https://libguides.uta.edu/quantitative_and_qualitative_research/quant
https://www.gcu.edu/blog/doctoral-journey/why-quantitative-research-important
https://course.ccs.neu.edu/is4800sp12/resources/qualmethods.pdf