Table 1-4.

Comparison of Quantitative & Qualitative Research

CATEGORY QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH QUALITATIVE RESEARCH
Aim To classify the attributes of the subject of To develop a complete or detailed
study, count them, and construct statistical description of the attributes of the subject
models in an attempt to explain what is of the study.
observed.
Design All aspects of the study are carefully The design emerges as the study unfolds.
designed before the data are collected
Data-gathering Researcher uses tools, such as Researcher is the data gathering instrument.
Instrument questionnaires or instrument to collect
numerical data.
Types of data Data are in the form of numbers and Data are in the form of words, pictures or
statistics. objects.
Degree of Partiality Relatively objective as it seeks precise Relatively subjective since the individual’s
measurement and analysis of target interpretation of events is important,
concepts. especially when using participant
observation, in-depth interviews, and the
like.
Use of data Quantitative data is more efficient, able to Qualitative data is richer in meaning, but
test hypotheses, but may miss contextual time consuming, and less able to be
detail. generalized.
Researcher’s Researcher tends to remain objectively Researcher tends to become subjectively
participation separated from the subject matter. immersed in the subject matter.