LibGuides: Research Basics (Top Nav): Qualitative and Quantitative Research

Qualitative Research

Qualitative research contains data about quality and human behavior. The data is usually gathered through interviews and observation.

Visit the Qualitative Research Topic Page in Credo Reference for more information.

Differences Between Qualitative and Quantitative Research

Qualitative	Quantitative
Emphasis on understanding human behavior and presenting finding through words instead of numbers	Emphasis on the measurement and relationships through variables
Broadly worded aim, often including the word "explore," requiring a descriptive approach to answer it using the views, experiences, descriptions from individuals in their own words, or direct observational descriptions from the researcher	Narrowly worded aim that requires numeric data to answer it. The emphasis is on objectivity and measurable outcomes that can be statistically processed
Early use of literature avoided so ideas and analysis are not influenced by previous studies. Literature is reviewed and used once analysis has taken place to support or contrast with current findings	Early in-depth use of the literature to influence direction and content of the study
Use of smaller samples providing in-depth data from which greater understanding can emerge from the analysis of the findings	Use of large sample sizes to ensure results can be generalized
Use of induction as a way of analysis, starting with the findings, and then constructing a theory that may explain the findings	Use of deduction as a way of analysis, starting with a theory and establishing the truth of this through the collection of data
Central focus on being able to understand and gain insights from the data. Although the purpose is not to generalize from the results in detail, there is an intention that the general principles emerging from finding may have some transferability to other locations	Central focus on being able to generalize from the data and apply to other like situations

Table adapted from page 57 of Nursing and Healthcare Research at a Glance.

Quantitative Research

Quantitative research contains data about quantity or numbers. The data can be measured and statistically processed.

Visit the Quantitative Research Topic Page in Credo Reference for more information.

Healthcare Research eBooks

Evidence-Based Nursing by Sarah Jo Brown
ISBN: 9781284099430
Publication Date: 2016-11-01
Evidence-Based Nursing: The Research-Practice Connection, Fourth Edition introduces students to research methods and evidence-based practice. The text helps students understand research methods, how to appraise and use research evidence in clinical decision-making, and how to fully understand and engage in evidence-based practice.
Nursing and Health Care Research at a Glance by Alan Glasper (Editor); Colin Rees (Editor)
ISBN: 9781118778791
Publication Date: 2016-08-29
Nursing and Healthcare Research at a Glance is perfect for nursing and healthcare students, as well as newly qualified practitioners and anyone looking for a refresher or introduction to research. Covering a broad range of topics gathered under key sections, this essential book combines informative diagrams and images to provide memorable information for students on one page, and accessible, clearly written text on the facing page. It includes information on a range of quantitative and qualitative research methods, the process of gaining ethical permission, conducting research with special groups including children, and successfully conducting reviews of the literature.
Qualitative Research in Nursing and Healthcare by Immy Holloway; Kathleen Galvin
ISBN: 9781118874493
Publication Date: 2016-09-26
Qualitative Research in Nursing and Healthcare is an invaluable resource for those who carry out qualitative research in the healthcare arena. It is intended to assist: Professionals and academics in the healthcare field who undertake or teach research in clinical or educational settings; Postgraduates who are undertaking qualitative research and want to revise qualitative research approaches and procedures before going on to more specialist texts; and Undergraduates in their last year who wish to learn about qualitative perspectives or carry out a project using these approaches.