Qualitative and Quantitative Research discussion:
Respond to following statements
1. Which technique one chooses really should depend on what the question is they are trying to answer. "Qualitative research methodologies have roots in a variety of disciplines. Qualitative research tries to achieve a deeper understanding of the situation. Qualitative research techniques are used during both data collection and analysis. Qualitative Research is used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations. Qualitative Research can provide insights into the problem or help to develop ideas or hypotheses. Quantitative Research is used to measure the problem by generating numerical data or data that can be transformed into useable statistics. "In the world of research, there are two general approaches to gathering and reporting information: qualitative and quantitative approaches. The qualitative approach to research is focused on understanding a phenomenon from a closer perspective. The quantitative approach tends to approximate phenomena from a larger number of individuals using survey methods. In this research corner, I describe methods that are generally used in each strand of research. Each approach has its benefits and detriments, and is more suitable to answering certain kinds of questions"
2. Being able to introduce both research styles into a problem is ideal. "Many researchers recognize that qualitative research compensates for the weaknesses of qualitative research and vice versa. These forward thinkers believe that the methodologies complement rather than rival each other" Both types of research are beneficial in certain circumstances.
"Qualitative methods generally aim to understand the experiences and attitudes of patients, the community or healthcare worker. These methods aim to answer questions about the 'what', 'how' or 'why' of a phenomenon rather than 'how many' or 'how much', which are answered by quantitative methods". It is difficult to decide which method is more effective research focus. "Research that draws on the strengths of both quantitative and qualitative approaches has become increasingly recognized as essential in a number of fields intrinsic to outcomes research". I believe that data speaks volumes for the presentation for change or research. However, it is important to incorporate a sense of how or what the research is trying to tell us. Both are extremely useful, especially together, but stand alone I would have to choose qualitative research.