PSY 326 Research Methods

Part 1

Compare and contrast characteristics of qualitative and quantitative research

approaches, including such aspects as sample size and type of data.

Through experimental and non-experimental designs, scientific research collects, analyses,

and interprets data using qualitative, quantitative, or both methodologies. According to

Newman, quantitative research employs a systematic method of data collection. Qualitative

research is a descriptive method to gather data by delving deeper into an individual's thoughts

and activities on a more personal level to better understand their behaviour and experiences

Open-ended questionnaires are used in this strategy to gain a better understanding of

individuals being observed (Newman 2016). When describing qualitative and quantitative

data, there is a contrast between the two categories of data. For example, when examining

things, Qualitative focuses on the perspective component, taking a naturalistic approach.

Trying to figure out what people are doing and why they are doing it. Quantitative analysis is

mainly concerned with facts and statistics derived from data gathered via numeric variables,

which are analyzed using graphs and tables. This strategy is commonly used to test theories

that support or refute it. When quantitative data is acquired through descriptive or inferential

methods, questionnaires are applied.

Briefly explain the difference between experimental and non-experimental research.

One of the most significant distinctions between non-experimental and experimental research

is that experimental research involves manipulating variables. In contrast, non-experimental

research lacks an independent variable to manipulate, random assignment of subjects to

conditions or orders of conditions, or both. Non-experimental research is used to find "what"

is happening, while experimental research explains "why" something is happening.

Part 2

Correlational research is a research method that involves comparison of two variables to see

if there is a relationship between them. The fact that correlation is employed for non-

experimental research is one of its key properties. It's used to anticipate a variable and is

dynamic, which means it can't be utilized on static data because it's constantly changing

(Seeram, 2019). Positive correlational, negative correlational, and no correlational

associations can all be identified through correlational research. The most important thing to

remember about correlation is that it does not imply causation. That statement implies that

correlational data alone cannot be used to demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship

between two variables. There are three types of data collection methodologies: the survey

method, the naturalistic observation method, and the archival data method. Correlation

research can be used in the following example: if one want to know if those who are wealthy

are less patient. You believe that affluent individuals are impatient based on your personal

experience. However, you want to find a statistical pattern that supports or refutes your

hypothesis. In this scenario, correlational research can be used to find a pattern that connects

both variables.

References

Newman, M.(2016).Research methods in psychology. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint

Education, Inc.

Seeram, E. (2019). An overview of correlational research. Radiologic technology, 91(2), 176-

179.