Research Methods Comparison: Quantitative versus Qualitative Studies, and Picking the Right One for You
In a recent interview published in both "Human or Animal Subject Research" and "Junior Paper (JP)", Albert Lee, a student identified as '24, discusses his preference for qualitative research and the challenges of choosing between quantitative and qualitative research methods for a junior paper in social sciences.
Lee, who has written both a quantitative and a qualitative junior paper, prefers qualitative research because he enjoys closely analyzing texts. Currently, he is conducting a content analysis of gender progressive advertisements, considering both quantitative and qualitative methods.
The interview discusses the challenge of choosing between these two research methodologies. According to Lee, the choice depends on the specifics of the research. If the goal is to test hypotheses, measure variables numerically, identify relationships or differences among variables, or seek generalizable results using statistical analysis, quantitative research might be the better choice. On the other hand, if the aim is to explore complex phenomena, understand meanings, experiences, attitudes, or behaviors, and seek depth rather than breadth, qualitative research is more appropriate.
Lee suggests that if a paper focuses on explaining patterns or testing a theory with measurable data, use quantitative methods. However, if the paper intends to gain deeper insight or understand subjective experiences or contexts, qualitative methods are more suitable. Lee also mentions that a mixed-methods approach combining both quantitative and qualitative research can be beneficial if the topic and resources allow.
When faced with this decision, Lee advises seeking guidance from professors and advisers to determine the best methodology for the research. He believes that qualitative research is a better-suited methodology for getting more answers to his research question.
Another article related to junior papers is titled "From Law to Coding: Writing my SPIA Quantitative Junior Paper", which indicates that Lee has also written a quantitative junior paper.
[1] Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. Sage Publications. [2] Flick, U. (2018). An Introduction to Qualitative Research. Sage Publications. [3] Morgan, D. L. (2018). Going beyond Methods: Mixed Methods in Social Research. Sage Publications. [4] Tashakkori, A., & Teddlie, C. (2010). Handbook of Mixed Methods in Social & Behavioral Research. Sage Publications. [5] Yin, R. K. (2018). Case Study Research: Design and Methods. Sage Publications.
Read also:
- Medical professional advocates for increased action to address deficiency of primary care physicians
- Political Leadership Ought to Prioritize Topical Influence: Reasons and Implications
- Rapid Expansion Expected in Gesture-Controlled Wearables Sector at a Rate of 14.4%
- Trump's Successful Streak: President Trump Delivers on His Campaign Pledges, Reaching 200 Days in Office
