qualitative and quantitative methods, bias and scientific considerations Flashcards
what is qualitative data?
provides understanding of experiences, perceptions, motivations, behaviours based on description and observation
what is collected from qualitative data ?
- spoken words, written words, pictures, visual, documents ; observations described in words
what is the starting point of qualitative data?
- situation the researcher can observe
what is the goal of qualitative designs?
- pts comfortable with researcher so honest and forthcoming
- allows researcher to make robust observations
what are examples of methods that collect qualitative data?
- semi- structured interviews
- focus groups
- participant observation
what are interviews?
- variously directed convo based on language and interaction
- can be structured or semi structured
what are the advantages of interviews?
+ avoids pre- defined categories and opens up to surprising outcomes
+ helps refine research questions for future
+ interaction between research and researched population
what is quantitative data?
based on numerical data and usually seeks to establish casual relationships and/ or differences between variables
what does quantitative data involve?
- observations measured in numbers
what is the starting point of quantitative data?
- testable hypothesis
what is the goal of quantitative data?
- findings can be repeatedly tested by others
- variables are defined and statical analyses test relationship/ differences between vs
what are examples of methods that collect quantitative data?
-surveys
- randomised control trials
- lab experiments
list some differences between qualitative and quantitative
qualitative more subjective and in depth due to no stats test whereas quantitative is objective and has a wider breadth of info due to stats analysis
what is the difference in reliability and generalisability of the two data sets?
qualitative can be valid if researcher is skilful and presents rigour but is less generalisable quantitative is valid depending on measurement device and is more generalisable
what is the aim?
- statement describing the purpose of the study
what is the research question?
- specific question delineating the primary aim of research study