The key differences between each type of qualitative and quantitative research
Describe the key differences between each type of qualitative and quantitative research. Provide a workplace example in which qualitative and quantitative research has been applied and how it has been used within your organization. When replying to peers, discuss how these research findings might be incorporated into another health care setting.
Sample Answer
Key Differences Between Qualitative and Quantitative Research
Qualitative Research
- Focus: Explores the “why” and “how” of phenomena.
- Data: Subjective, narrative, and descriptive.
- Methods: Interviews, observations, focus groups, and document analysis.
- Analysis: Thematic analysis, discourse analysis, and grounded theory.
Quantitative Research
- Focus: Measures variables and tests hypotheses.
- Data: Objective, numerical, and measurable.
- Methods: Surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis.
- Analysis: Statistical analysis, such as t-tests, ANOVA, and regression analysis.
Workplace Example: Implementing a New Electronic Health Record (EHR) System
Qualitative Research:
- Focus groups: To understand healthcare providers’ perceptions, attitudes, and experiences with the new EHR system.
- Interviews: To explore in-depth the specific challenges and benefits perceived by individual healthcare providers.