Using Both Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Essay Example

These are two scientific research methods and applicable when the nurse is conducting research on a particular issue. Quantitative methods have been considered more valid because it allows researchers to analyze findings using statistical techniques/measurements. Somehow in the scientific research environment due to of its ability to calculate conclusions using formulas,scientists tend to believe that it is more accurate than a qualitative approach. The limitation, however, lie in situations withsubjects researched and topic,statistical applications are incompatible. Every phenomenon cannot be explained using statistical measurements in the same way as all problems cannot be filly validated from a qualitative premise. Therefore, a fusion of designs brings more reliability and validity to the research (Denzin & Lincoln, 2011).

For example, in observational studies whereby the researcher has to observe human behavior over a long period, data most often cannot be analyzed from only  froma statistical perspective. Even if the researcher begins with a hypothesis, a statistical chi- square test of significance may not accurately reflect a true image of the subjects’ behavior in the study. Therefore, alternative approaches must be taken in explaining the data utilizing a theoretical framework as used in qualitative research designs (Silverman, 2011)

Qualitative research designs go beyond promptlyexplaining what, where and when as demonstrated in a quantitative model. Further, it seeks to investigate the why and how, which is seldom represented in a statistical interpretation of data style. Hence, qualitative research designs focus on small maples to gather in depth insights into the phenomenon being researched. More importantly, qualitative research designs embody investigations clarifying human behavior; explaining the why and how as when nurses try finding out why and how some patients respond to hypertensive medications adversely and others do not (Franklin, 2012).

Consequently, a mixed method approach can adequately be applied in explaining differences in medication responses among two sets of patients. The strength of combining qualitative and qualitative relates to researchers being able tobegin witha hypothesis. For example, ‘biological and emotional factors affect patients’ responses to hypertensive medications.’ Clearly, this is a human behavior model research, which would necessitate some theoretical premise/framework. A quantitative approach would answer what, where and when whereas a qualitative one would explain why and how this phenomenon of human behavior occurs (Franklin, 2012)

Precisely, when the researcher needs to present the where, when and when of the situation a quantitative approach becomes mandatory in establishing validity and reliability. It has been argued by research scientists that quantitative approaches eliminate the risk of biases, because researchers can measure outcomes. Qualitative designs solely depend on theory for validating results and conclusions in the data collectionprocess and analysis segments of the study(Franklin, 2012).

Combining these methods are not free of challenges. According to Creswell and Plano (2011)cultural issues may influence interpretations when viewed from an international paradigm. For example, if the study is to be published worldwide some schools mayreject the it arguing that the methodology is incomprehensive in terms of data analysis purposes. Again researchers must develop the skills of combing paradigms that do not conflict. For example, the statistical test of significance applied to a qualitative hypothesis may lack the capability for testing due to how it was worded. Contemporary scientific research advocates mixed methods since mono methods could be misleading lacking true validity. Once the hurdles of combining relevant aspects of data collection and analysis have been overcome and understood by the reading population it is most valuable( Creswell& Plano, 2011).

References

Creswell, W., & Plano, L. (2011). Designing and conducting mixed methods research. Los Angeles, CA: Sage.

Denzin, K., & Lincoln, Y. S. (2011). The SAGE Handbook of qualitative research (4th ed.). Los Angeles: Sage Publications

Franklin, M.  (2012).Understanding Research: Coping with the Quantitative-Qualitative Divide. London/New York. Routledge

Silverman, D. (2011). Qualitative Research: Issues of Theory, Method and Practice (3^rd ed). London, Thousand Oaks, New Delhi, Sage Publications