The 9 differences between qualitative and quantitative research

These two sides of social science combine to help us understand what we are like.

Scientific research methods fall into two broad categories: quantitative and qualitative. While the former focus on the mathematical analysis of observable phenomena, qualitative research is based on language and aims at a deep understanding of its objects of study.

In this article we will analyze the 9 main differences between quantitative and qualitative research..

Differences between qualitative and quantitative research

The differences between qualitative and quantitative research are in many different aspects, from the goals and applications of the studies to their psychometric properties. Each of them has, in turn, advantages and disadvantages that make it more appropriate in certain circumstances, advantages and disadvantages that make them more appropriate in certain circumstances..

Although many people underestimate the usefulness of qualitative methods, as we shall see, they allow us to analyze phenomena that are different from those that are the focus of interest of quantitative methods, as well as allowing us to approach the same facts from a deeper perspective.

1. Object of study

The object of study of quantitative research is static data from which probabilistic conclusions are drawn. Qualitative methods focus mainly on processes, i.e., on dynamic aspects.Qualitative methods focus mainly on processes, i.e., on dynamic aspects, and focus on the subjective experience of phenomena from the perspective of the subjects of analysis.

2. Objectives and applications

The main objective of qualitative research is the initial exploration, description and understanding of a phenomenon. In this sense, we can say that qualitative methods focus on the generation of hypotheses about specific facts; sometimes conclusions can be drawn from these studies through induction.

Quantitative methods, on the other hand, are usually used at a more advanced stage of the scientific process: in testing hypotheses, i.e., in their confirmation or refutation.. Thus, they are mainly deductive in nature and in many cases are associated with the analysis of theory and the recommendation of courses of action for specific problems.

3. Analytical point of view

Since qualitative research focuses on exploring phenomena from the perspective of specific individuals, it inevitably has a subjective character, although this does not necessarily imply a lack of methodological rigor. Quantitative methods, on the other hand, seek to analyze effects that can be measured objectively.

However, contrary to what is often advocated, quantitative methods are not totally objective, quantitative methods are not entirely objectiveThey are highly dependent on the action of the researchers, who choose the variables to be studied, carry out the analyses and interpret the results. They are therefore clearly susceptible to human error.

4. Type of data

Quantitative research data are of a numerical type; for this reason, they are assumed to have a certain solidity and replicability that will allow inferences to be made beyond the data themselves. In qualitative research, priority is given to the depth and richness of the information on a specific fact, and inferences are limited to this fact.

5. Methodology

Being focused on numerical aspects, quantitative methods allow the specific and controlled measurement of many concrete aspects of reality. In addition, this makes it possible to statistical analysis can be carried out using the data, which in turnThis in turn will favor the comparison of different sets of information and the generalization of results.

In contrast, qualitative research uses primarily language-based data, in particular narrative records. The methods of analysis are much more naturalistic in nature and greater importance is given to the context and the relationships between the elements that make up the phenomenon under study, rather than just to these separately.

6. Techniques used

Researchers who use qualitative methodology employ methods such as in-depth interviews, participant observation or group discussions and conversations. and group discussions and conversations. These techniques have a lower level of structuring than the quantitative approach, which includes methods such as questionnaires and systematic observation records.

7. Level of analysis

While quantitative research analyzes specific aspects of the objects of study, qualitative research has a more holistic character; this means that it tries to understand the structure of the facts and the dynamics between the elements that compose them in a global rather than particularistic way.

8. Degree of generalization

In theory, quantitative methods use representative samples of a larger population in order to draw conclusions and generalize to this higher level; in addition, there are techniques that allow the measurement and reduction of the probability of techniques that make it possible to measure and reduce the probability of error.. The difficulty in generalizing results is the most characteristic defect of qualitative research.

9. Validity and reliability

The reliability and trustworthiness of quantitative research depend mainly on the techniques and instruments used to measure and process the data. In the case of qualitative methodology, these properties are related to a greater extent to the rigor and capacity of the researchers, and may be more subjective in nature.