ASSIGMENT ON QUALITATIVE,

QUANTITATIVE AND MIXED RESEARCH

METHODS.

PROFESSOR: WILMO CANDANEDO

SUBJECT: SEMINARIO DE TRABAJO
DE GRADO

STUDENT: GISELA CASTRELLON S.

4.229-909

DATE: JANUARY 19th 2024

ES PEPTEERRPEROO
Title: Exploring the Differences Amongst Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed
Research Approaches

Introduction: Research serves as a systematic inquiry aimed at generating

knowledge and understanding various phenomena. Qualitative, quantitative, and
mixed research methods represent three distinct approaches utilized by
researchers to explore, analyze, and interpret information. Each method
possesses unique characteristics, advantages, and limitations, facilitating the
pursuit of diverse research questions and objectives.

Qualitative Research: Qualitative research concentrates on delving into the depth

and richness of human experiences, perceptions, and behaviors. This approach
employs non-numerical data, such as interviews, observations, and open-ended
surveys, to capture the nuances of a phenomenon. By scrutinizing the subjective
aspects of a topic, qualitative research endeavors to unveil underlying meanings,
patterns, and themes. This method proves particularly valuable when researchers
aim to comprehend complex social phenomena, cultural practices, or individual
perspectives.

Quantitative Research: In contrast, quantitative research places emphasis on the

collection of numerical data to analyze patterns, relationships, and statistical
significance. Surveys, experiments, and structured observations are common tools
in this method. Quantitative research offers a systematic and objective means of
studying large populations, enabling the generalization of findings. It proves
effective in measuring variables, identifying trends, and establishing cause-and-
effect relationships. This method is often employed in scientific, medical, and social
research to quantify phenomena and draw statistical inferences.

Mixed Methods Research: Recognizing the strengths of both qualitative and

quantitative approaches, mixed methods research integrates elements from both
methodologies. Researchers employing this approach collect, analyze, and
integrate both numerical and non-numerical data in a single study. This approach
yields a more comprehensive understanding of the research question, enriching
the findings with diverse perspectives. Mixed methods research proves particularly
useful when researchers aim to triangulate results, validate findings, or explore
complex phenomena that demand a multifaceted approach.

Conclusion: In conclusion, qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research methods

each play crucial roles in advancing knowledge across various disciplines. The
choice of a research approach depends on the nature of the research question,
the depth of understanding required, and the type of data needed. Researchers
should carefully consider the strengths and limitations of each method and, in
some cases, opt for a mixed methods approach to leverage the benefits of both
qualitative and quantitative methodologies. By employing these research
approaches judiciously, scholars contribute to understanding the world around us.