Abbi Carr

Research Methodologies
Module Six

Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research Designs

Quantitative

Qualitative

Employs deductive reasoning

The focus of the study is concise and
narrow
Tests an existing theory
Relies on statistical data analysis

Employs Inductive Reasoning

The focus of the study is broad and
complex
Develops a theory
Relies on non-statistical data analysis

Narrative Research Designs:

Examines experiences as they are lived; very human-nature oriented. Often, data is collected by
several forms of media including video and audio recordings as well as direct observations and
accounts.
Advantages: Very loosely structured; no clearly defined steps to limit the researcher.
Disadvantages: Can become easily biased; often considered less definitive as other forms of
research.
Scenario: A research wants to study the way in which college freshmen vs. college seniors define
their social role at school.

Ethnographic Research Design:

Long-term study of a particular group/culture that is centered on immersion into that
group/culture. Data is collected through direct observation and oftentimes personal experience
while immersed.
Advantages: Loose structure; flexibility to employ mixed methodologies.
Disadvantages: Sometimes considered labor intensive due to the complete immersion into a
foreign setting; long-term obligation.
Scenario: A researcher want to study the behaviors of an isolated village in a remote section of
the Amazon.

Mixed-Methods Research Designs

Mixed methods designs may be either fixed or emergent. Fixed mixed-method designs are
studies that use methods that are predetermined and planned at the start of the research process.
Emergent designs however, are studies that use methods as the need arises due to issues within
the research framework.
Mixed-methods designs are appropriate for researchers who are studying a subject on which little
information is established. By approaching the subject from a variety of methods, information
gained will be significantly more prolific.