Comparison of Qualitative and Quantitative Research

Andreas Ernst

apr 2003 · GRIN Verlag

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Seminar paper from the year 2002 in the subject Business economics - Miscellaneous, grade: 2 (B), University of St. Gallen (Research Methods), language: English, abstract: As well in theory as both in the practicable reality the question arises repeatedly about the more convenient research method – the so-called method conflict between quantitative and qualitative research (Iberer 1). To go into this discussion and finally draw a conclusion I first define and compare both research methods and as a next step question its purposes. To get a better understanding for both research methods I limit my considerations to a clear distinction and do not go into the question of combining the two. “Quantitative research methods were originally developed in natural sciences to study natural phenomena” (Myers, Overview of qualitative research). It’s aim is to capture relevant facts [...] and explain them causally with empirical – analytical methods (Iberer 1). “Qualitative research methods [on the other hand] were developed in the social sciences to enable researchers to study social and cultural phenomena” (Myers, Overview of qualitative research). This method tries to clarify the basic issue of how subjects interpret and see the world, why and how they act and in which form changes take place (Iberer 1). After this rough overview I cope with the issue in more detail by opposing one research method to the other.