Based on the comparison of qualitative and quantitative research provided, recall and describe the main differences between these two methodologies across the following three dimensions: the initial focus or inquiry, the sample size and data characteristics, and the primary analysis goal.
Question: Based on the comparison of qualitative and quantitative research provided, recall and describe the main differences between these two methodologies across the following three dimensions: the initial focus or inquiry, the sample size and data characteristics, and the primary analysis goal.
Sample answer: According to the text, quantitative research begins with a focused hypothesis, collects numerical data from large samples, and uses statistical techniques to draw general population conclusions. In contrast, qualitative research starts with a broader, less focused research question, collects large amounts of unfiltered, nonnumerical data from a small number of individuals, and uses nonstatistical analysis to deeply understand the detailed experiences of participants rather than making broad statistical generalizations.
Key points:
- Quantitative research starts with a focused hypothesis; qualitative research starts with a broader, less focused research question.
- Quantitative research collects numerical data from large samples; qualitative research collects unfiltered, nonnumerical data from a small number of individuals.
- Quantitative analysis uses statistical techniques for population generalizations; qualitative analysis uses nonstatistical techniques to understand detailed experiences.
Rubric: To earn full credit (10 points): - 3 points: Recall that quantitative research starts with a focused hypothesis, while qualitative starts with a broad, less focused research question. - 3 points: Recall that quantitative research uses numerical data from large samples, whereas qualitative research uses unfiltered, nonnumerical data from a small number of individuals. - 4 points: Recall that quantitative research uses statistical techniques for general conclusions, while qualitative research uses nonstatistical techniques to understand detailed experiences in depth.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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