QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE

QUANTITATIVE

is an inquiry into an identified problem, based on testing a theory, measured with numbers, and analyzed using statistical techniques.

GOAL

to determine whether the predictive generalizations of a theory hold true.

QUALITATIVE

is conducted in a natural setting and involves a process of building a complex and holistic
picture of the phenomenon of interest.

GOAL

understanding a social or human problem from multiple perspectives.

TYPES

TYPES

Quasi-Experiments

Surveys

Experiments

True experiments are characterized by random assignment of subjects to experimental conditions and the use of experimental controls.

studies share almost all the features of experimental designs.

include cross-sectional and longitudinal studies using
questionnaires or interviews for data collection

Ethnographic Studies

Phenomenological Studies

Case Studies

explores a single entity or
phenomenon bounded by time and activity and collects detailed information through a variety of data collection procedures over a sustained period of time.

the researcher studies an intact
cultural group in a natural setting over a specific period of time.

human experiences are
examined through the detailed description of the people being studied