How can qualitative and quantitative data be analyzed

Quantitative methods allow you to systematically measure variables and test hypotheses. Qualitative methods allow you to explore concepts and experiences in more detail. In mixed methods research , you use both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods to answer your research question.

The research methods you use depend on the type of data you need to answer your research question. Data collection is the systematic process by which observations or measurements are gathered in research. It is used in many different contexts by academics, governments, businesses, and other organizations. There are various approaches to qualitative data analysis , but they all share five steps in common:. The specifics of each step depend on the focus of the analysis.

Some common approaches include textual analysis , thematic analysis , and discourse analysis. Have a language expert improve your writing. Check your paper for plagiarism in 10 minutes. Do the check. Generate your APA citations for free! APA Citation Generator. Home Knowledge Base Methodology Qualitative vs. Qualitative vs. Quantitative research Quantitative research is expressed in numbers and graphs. It is used to test or confirm theories and assumptions.

This type of research can be used to establish generalizable facts about a topic. What is mixed methods research? How do I decide which research methods to use? If you want to measure something or test a hypothesis , use quantitative methods.

If you want to explore ideas, thoughts and meanings, use qualitative methods. If you want to analyze a large amount of readily-available data, use secondary data. This is qualitative data. It looks like you're using Internet Explorer 11 or older. This website works best with modern browsers such as the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. If you continue with this browser, you may see unexpected results. Qualitative vs. Quantitative Search this Guide Search. Data Module 1: What is Research Data?

Defining Research Data Qualitative vs. Quantitative Data Quantitative vs. Qualitative Data Research data can be placed into two broad categories: quantitative or qualitative. Quantitative research is considered to have as its main purpose the quantification of data. This allows generalizations of results from a sample to an entire population of interest and the measurement of the incidence of various views and opinions in a given sample.

Yet, quantitative research is not infrequently followed by qualitative research which then aims to explore select findings further. These qualitative research methods are often used to analyze scientific data. This type of data often occurs in case studies. These research methods are often used to analyze scientific data. Qualitative research is considered to be particularly suitable for gaining an in-depth understanding of underlying reasons and motivations.

At the same time, it frequently generates ideas and hypotheses for later quantitative research. The main differences between quantitative and qualitative research consist in respect to data sample, data collection, data analysis, and last but not least in regard to outcomes. Data collection in qualitative research is not seldom based on unstructured or semi-structured , but methodologically flexible techniques, e.

Individual interviews help to understand behaviors and other defined variables better, but they need even more time of preparation than group discussions or other data collection methods. Its findings are often not conclusive and cannot automatically be used to make generalizations.