Difference between quantitative and qualitative research in the

perspective of the research paradigm:

A paradigm is a worldview, a general perspective, a way of breaking down the complexity of the
real world.
The functions of paradigms as follows:
● Define how the world works, how knowledge is extracted from this world, and how one is
to think, write, and talk about this knowledge
● Define the types of questions to be asked and the methodologies to be used in
answering
● Decide what is published and what is not published
● Structure the world of the academic worker
● Provide its meaning and its significance
Research paradigms can be characterised through their:
1. ontology – What is reality?
The constructs of ontology are:
• There is one reality
• There are multiple realities
• Realities changes as time
2. Epistemology – How do you know something?
The constructs of epistemology are:
• It can be measured single reliable measure
• It can be interpreted
• It can be measured by best methods that solve it
3. methodology – How do you go about finding it out?
Types of paradigm:
Positivists believe that there is a single reality, which can be measured and known, and
therefore they are more likely to use quantitative methods to measure and this reality.
Constructivists believe that there is no single reality or truth, and therefore reality needs to be
interpreted, and therefore they are more likely to use qualitative methods to get those multiple
realities.
Pragmatists believe that reality is constantly renegotiated, debated, interpreted, and therefore
the best method to use is the one that solves the problem

The difference between Qualitative Research and Quantitative Research?

Qualitative Research
● Qualitative Research is primarily exploratory research.
● It is used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations.
 ● It provides insights into the problem or helps to develop ideas or hypotheses for
potential quantitative research. Qualitative Research is also used to uncover trends in
thoughts and opinions, and dive deeper into the problem.
● Qualitative data collection methods vary using unstructured or semi-structured
techniques.
● Some common methods include focus groups (group discussions), individual interviews,
and participation/observations. The sample size is typically small, and respondents are
selected to fulfil a given quota.Naturalistic Inquiry
● Qualitative observational research is naturalistic because it studies a group in its natural
setting. Patton explains, "Naturalistic inquiry is thus contrasted to experimental research
where the investigator attempts to completely control the condition of the study" (p. 42).
Inductive analysis
This characteristic is prevalent in qualitative research because it allows the observer to become
immersed in a group. The researcher starts with answers, but forms questions throughout the
research process. Hypotheses and theories can continuously change depending on what the
observer wants to know.
Holistic perspective
Holistic approach assumes that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts" (
Personal contact and insight
The researcher is responsible for becoming a part of a group to get a more in-depth study.
However, the researcher also has to be aware of biases (both good and bad).
Dynamic systems
Qualitative observational research is not concerned with having straightforward, right or wrong
answers.
Unique case orientation
Researchers must remember that every study is special and deserves in-depth attention. This is
especially necessary for doing cultural comparisons.
Context sensitivity
Researchers must realize the different variables, such as values and beliefs, that influence
cultural behaviors.
Empathic neutrality
Ideally, researchers should be non-judgmental when compiling findings. Because complete
neutrality is impossible, this characteristic is a controversial aspect of qualitative research.
Design flexibility
Researchers can continue to do research on other topics or questions that emerge from the
initial research.
Quantitative Research
● Quantitative Research is used to quantify the problem by way of generating numerical
data or data that can be transformed into usable statistics.
● It is used to quantify attitudes, opinions, behaviors, and other defined variables – and
generalize results from a larger sample population.
● Quantitative Research uses measurable data to formulate facts and uncover patterns in
research. Quantitative data collection methods are much more structured than
Qualitative data collection methods. Quantitative data collection methods include various
forms of surveys – online surveys, paper surveys, mobile surveys and kiosk surveys,
face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews, longitudinal studies, website interceptors,
online polls, and systematic observations.