Qualitative vs Quantitative vs Mixed Methods Research: How To Choose Research Methodology

Summary

In this Grad Coach TV episode, host Emma simplifies the complex world of academic research by exploring qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research methodologies. She guides viewers on selecting the appropriate method for their dissertation or thesis, emphasizing the importance of aligning research aims with the chosen methodology. Emma also discusses the influence of disciplinary norms and practical considerations like data access, time, and resources. The video is a valuable resource for researchers seeking clarity on methodological approaches.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods are the three overarching research strategies that guide data collection and analysis techniques.
• 🌟 Qualitative research focuses on non-numerical data, aiming to understand perceptions, ideas, and feelings, often used for exploratory aims.
• 📊 Quantitative research deals with numerical data, measuring differences and relationships, and is typically used for confirmatory or hypothesis-testing research.
• 🤝 Mixed methods research combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches, useful for exploring and then testing hypotheses or vice versa.
• 🎯 The choice of research method should align with the research aims and questions, whether they are exploratory, confirmatory, or a mix of both.
• 📚 Reviewing existing literature can provide insights into methodological approaches commonly used in your field and help in selecting an appropriate methodology.
• 🏛 Consider disciplinary norms when choosing a research approach, as different fields may favor certain methodologies.
• 🚧 Practical considerations such as data access, time, funding, equipment, and your own skills and knowledge should influence your methodological choice.
• ⏱ The feasibility of your research design must be balanced with its scientific rigor, considering constraints like time and resources.
• 🔗 For detailed guidance on research methodologies, including data collection and analysis, refer to resources like the Grad Coach blog.
• 🌐 For personalized research assistance, consider Grad Coach's one-on-one coaching services for step-by-step guidance.

Q & A

What are the three types of research methodologies discussed in the video?

The video discusses three types of research methodologies: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research.

What is the primary focus of qualitative research?

Qualitative research focuses on non-numerical data such as words, concepts, perceptions, or ideas, and is more subjective in nature.

How does quantitative research differ from qualitative research?

Quantitative research uses numerical data and statistics, and is more objective, often used to measure differences or relationships between variables and to test hypotheses.

What is the purpose of mixed methods research?

Mixed methods research combines both qualitative and quantitative data to explore a situation and test hypotheses, providing a comprehensive understanding of a research problem.

Why might a researcher choose a mixed methods approach?

A researcher might choose a mixed methods approach to first explore a situation qualitatively and then test the developed hypotheses quantitatively, or vice versa, to gain a deeper understanding of the research topic.

What are the three factors to consider when choosing the right research methodology for a dissertation or thesis?

The three factors to consider are the nature of the research aims and questions, the methodological approaches in existing literature, and practicalities and constraints such as data access, time, money, equipment, and the researcher's skills.

Why is it important to align the research methodology with the research aims and questions?

Aligning the methodology with the research aims and questions ensures that the chosen approach is suitable for addressing the specific research objectives, leading to a coherent and effective study.

How can reviewing existing literature help in selecting a research methodology?

Reviewing existing literature can provide insights into commonly accepted methodological approaches in the field, and potentially allow researchers to use established data collection techniques and instruments.

What practical constraints might influence the choice of research methodology?

Practical constraints such as data access, time availability, financial resources, required equipment and software, and the researcher's skills and knowledge can all influence the choice of research methodology.

What advice does the video give for first-time researchers regarding the choice of research methodology?

The video advises first-time researchers to generally stick to a single methodological approach (qualitative or quantitative) unless the nature of their study genuinely warrants a mixed methods approach.

How can the Grad Coach blog and coaching services assist researchers in their methodology choices?

The Grad Coach blog provides additional information on research design choices, and their coaching services offer one-on-one support to help researchers craft their research project step by step.