NURS 122

Deakin Library (Director). (2020, August 20). Quantitative and  Qualitative —  What’s the difference?   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4iws9XCyTEk

Quantitative research is method of research that relies on measuring variables using a numerical system, analyzing these measurements using any of a variety of statistical models, and reporting relationships and associations among the studied variables. For example, these variables may be test scores or measurements of reaction time. The goal of gathering this quantitative data is to understand, describe, and predict the nature of a phenomenon, particularly through the development of models and theories. Quantitative research techniques include experiments and surveys.

APA dictionary of psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2021, from https://dictionary.apa.org/

Begin by reading the abstract of an article. Look for clues such as wording that states:

• Researchers used statistical methods
• The study included a large number of subjects.
• Subjects completed questionnaires.
• The study examined relationships between several variables.

Qualitative research is a method of research that produces descriptive (non-numerical) data, such as observations of behavior or personal accounts of experiences. The goal of gathering this qualitative data is to examine how individuals can perceive the world from different vantage points. A variety of techniques are subsumed under qualitative research, including content analyses of narratives, in-depth interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and case studies, often conducted in naturalistic settings

APA dictionary of psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2021, from https://dictionary.apa.org/

Begin by reading the abstract of an article. Look for clues such as wording like:

• The goal of the study was to explore subjects' experiences
• Researchers conducted open ended interviews.
• Researchers used thematic analysis.

Often, an article wiill state it is a qualitative study, either in the title or in the abstract.