quantitative v qualitative

Question 1

quantitative data

Answer 1

data can be measured eg age

Question 2

qualitative data

Answer 2

data can be observed and analysed eg feelings

Question 3

sources of quantitative data

Answer 3

questionnaires, experiments, official statistics

Question 4

sources of qualitative data

Answer 4

interviews, observations, diaries, media

Question 5

quantitative data advantages

Answer 5

• collect large quantities of data
• study can be replicated to check results
• data can be analysed statistically to reveal trends
• researcher less likely to influence the responses of their sample

Question 6

quantitative disadvantages

Answer 6

• forces people to choose predetermined answers thus not showing true views
• language used by respondents
• data may show trends but often cannot reveal the direction of causation
• response rate can be very low skewing sample

Question 7

qualitative advantages

Answer 7

• can provide very rich data full of detail
• can provide fuller responses that reveal the respondents’ true feeling and views
• can observe behaviour in its natural setting
• no boxes to force people
• can be done covertly

Question 8

qualitative data disadvantages

Answer 8

• the research normally cant be repeated to test accuracy
• sample size usually small - not representative
• researcher may change the behaviour of respondents by their presence
• research may use personal bias when interpreting