1. Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches
Chapter 2
EDPR 7521: Introduction to Educational Research
Dr. Kakali Bhattacharya

2. Quantitative Research
Predict
Generalize
There is one truth and with correct methods we can find the truth
Large sample size
Find wide patterns and trends

3. Qualitative Research Understand, interrogate, deconstruct
In-depth understanding, transferable ideas
Small sample size
There are multiple truths and people process their worlds differently. If we find out how people process their worlds, their everyday experiences, what contributes to how they make meaning, then we can address critical issues
Find themes and tell stories

4. Research from Both Perspectives
QUANTITATIVE
Trends
Relationship amongst variables
Research purpose specific and narrow
Seek to measure numerically
Preset questions and responses
Statistical analysis
Compare with predictions
QUALITATIVE
Exploration, give voice
Detailed understanding
Research purpose general and broad
Seek to measure in terms of documenting experiences
Word, image, music, lyrics, video data
Open-ended inquiry (preset if needed)
Analyze to describe and develop themes
State larger meanings of findings

5. Quantitative Research Designs
Specific approaches using quantitative inquiry
Experimental Designs
Control and experimental groups
Randomized subject selection
Correlational Designs
Relationship between two variables
Correlation DOES NOT mean causation
Survey Designs
Least rigorous
Most used in Education

6. Qualitative Research Designs
Grounded Theory Designs
Generate a general explanation from common experiences
Systematic process of inquiry
Ethnographic Designs
Descriptive research
Tell the story of a culture
Narrative Research Designs
Write narratives about individual’s experiences
Action Research Designs
Addresses practical problems in schools and classrooms
In conjunction with teachers and other stakeholders
Make improvements and changes

7. Note About Mixed Methods
Ok to do if synchronous
Don’t attempt it if simultaneous
Not enough good example
Not good rationalization
Need two equally robust designs
Surveys are not mixed methods
Words alone don’t make research qualitative. There has to be a design built in to the process

8. Are You Qualitative or Quantitative?
Subjectivities
What are your values
How do you process the world?
What do you think about truth?
What would you really want to know?
Know who your audience is
Know where the work will be received in publication
Think consequences (risk and benefit to you, participants, and the field)