Qualitative and Quantitative Data Collection Methods, Essay Example

Both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods are techniques a researcher can adapt during the research process. Application and understanding of articulating a specific data collection strategy is essential to any successful research project. With regards to Quantitative and qualitative techniques analysts contend that the one balances the other in relation to depth between the ability to generalize and accurately target the desired population ( Hughes, (2013).

. For example, many quantitative data collection methods encompass selecting samples for surveys/trials/ cohort studies. From these samples much information for generalization could emerge. However, in explaining data after using this approach intense statistical applications will have to be further applied for interpretation. In qualitative data collection techniques surveys are valid, but findings are delivered as simplistic scientific explanations through descriptive theoretical interpretations (Wholey, Hatry & Newcomer, 2004).

Herein lay the major advantages and disadvantages contained in using either of these methods. Modern scientists have criticized qualitative methods. Psychologists, for example, tend to combine quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques in their research. They argue that allowing explanation of data using statistics is more convincing than merely using words and theory. Next, qualitative techniques alone cannot be applied to cohort studies, which require description of data that goes beyond theoretical applications from other studies. These studies were deliberately designed to create theories (Hughes, 2013).

However, a major advantage is that qualitative studies are very useful in the social sciences where social phenomenon is investigated using focus groups and surveys mainly to collect. Afterwards social theory is either supported or disputed. There are no statistics which cannot be interpreted by the reader neither long data collection process lasting years (Patton, 2002).

References

Hughes, C. (2013). Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches. Retrieved on November 9^th, 2013 From http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/soc/sociology/staff/academicstaff/chughes/hughesc_index/teachingresearchprocess/quantitativequalitative/quantitativequalitative/

Patton, M. (2002). Qualitative research & evaluation methods. Thousand Oaks, CA. Sage.

Wholey, J. Hatry, H., & Newcomer, K. (2004).Handbook of practical program evaluation. San Francisco, CA. Jossey-Bass