FACULTY OF ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL
BCE3106: RESEARCH METHODS AND PROPOSAL WRITING
THIRD YEAR SEMESTER I - 2020/2021

ASSIGNMENT 1
NAME: DELINA TEDROS WELDEAB
REGISTRATION NO: 18/1036/BSCE-S
 ASSIGNMENT
1. Briefly explain the differences between Experimental research and Case study research.
Experimental Research:
An experimental research can be categorized under quantitative research, because it provides
statistically significant data as well as an objective and empirical approach. In an experiment,
there are two variables; the dependent variable and the independent variable. It is also known as
a systematic process that demands a standard scientific method. In this type of research, the first
process is identifying a problem, then a question is formed, then the research is carried out and
then the answer to the question is predicted in the form of a hypothesis. This research involves
comparisons of variables under manipulated conditions in the labs or controlled environment.
For example; physics, chemistry, engineering
Case Study Research
The case study research is a qualitative research method, or may involve both qualitative and
quantitative research methods. It is an empirical study that investigates a present-day
phenomenon within its real-life context, when the boundaries between phenomenon and context
are not clearly evident; and in which multiple sources of evidence are used. Case study research
design has evolved as a useful tool for investigating trends and specific situations in many
scientific disciplines e.g. social science, psychology, anthropology and ecology. During the case
study research, the case being studied may be an individual, organization, event, or action,
existing in a specific time and place.
2. Write short notes on Quantitative research and Qualitative research.
Quantitative Research:
Quantitative research is used to quantify the problem by a way of generating numerical data or
data that can be transferred into usable statistics. It is used to quantify attitudes, behaviors, and
other defined variables and generalize results from a larger sample population. It uses
measurable data to formulate facts and uncover patterns in research. Quantitative data collection
methods include online surveys, paper surveys, face-to-face interviews, longitudinal studies,
website interceptors and systematic observations.
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. It is also used to uncover trends
in thought and opinions and dig deeper into the problem. Qualitative data collection methods
Ref:
https://www.snapsurveys.com/blog/qualitative-vs-quantitative-research/
https://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-case-study-and-experiment/