Quantitative studies – studies that rely on quantitative information (i.e. numbers, figures)

Qualitative studies – studies that are based on qualitative information (i.e. words, sentences, narratives)

 

It cannot be generalized whether qualitative or quantitative studies are more useful. The appropriateness is determined by what the project team seeks.

ð        Quality of the research does not depend on whether it is quantitative or qualitative but   rather on the design and how well it is conducted

 

·         The choice between quantitative and qualitative is an epistemological issue.

·         Epistemological theory à the question of how on e acquire knowledge

o   Positivistic researchers knowledge acquisition process consist of deducting hypotheses and testing (reality measures)

o   Interpretivistic approach acquire knowledge by developing an understanding of phenomena through a deep level of investigation and analysis of those phenomenon.

 

Compared to a quantitative study, a qualitative study is more likely to obtain unexpected information, as the more structured approach of quantitative studies directs the researcher more, leaving less leeway to explore other avenues. Therefore, explorative studies often have a more qualitative character.

 

·         When making the choice whether qualitative or quantitative research should be conducted, the following should be taken into consideration:

-          What is your research problem

-          Are you attempting to conduct an explorative, descriptive, causal or predictive study?

-          What is the objective (i.e. what kind of outcomes are you looking for)?

-          What kind of information do you want to obtain and what do you already have access to?