What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research?

Qualitative research focuses on understanding human behavior, experiences, and perspectives. It seeks to provide insights into the meanings individuals attach to their experiences, often leading to in-depth knowledge of complex social phenomena. This type of research typically utilizes methods such as interviews, focus groups, and observations, allowing researchers to gather rich, descriptive data that captures the nuance of human behavior and societal interactions.

On the other hand, quantitative research involves the collection and analysis of numerical data, which can be used to identify patterns, test hypotheses, and generalize findings across larger populations. It often employs statistical methods to analyze data obtained from surveys, experiments, or existing numerical records.

This distinction underscores the unique contributions of both qualitative and quantitative approaches to research. Each method serves different purposes and can complement one another, enriching the understanding of social issues from multiple dimensions.