Types of Data

Question 1

Define the term ‘Quantitative Data.’

Answer 1

Quantitative data is numerical data such as scores on a test.

Question 2

Define the term Qualitative Data.’

Answer 2

Qualitative data is non-numerical and descriptive such as diary entries, observation notes or pictures.

Question 3

What are the strengths of Quantitative data?

Answer 3

Quantitative data is easier to analyse as it is objective and therefore comparisons between participants are more likely to be valid as there is less chance of researcher bias.

Question 4

What are the weaknesses of Quantitative data?

Answer 4

Quantitative data lacks detail as it doesn’t allow participants to explain their answers and give reasons and therefore doesn’t allow insight into behaviour and interpretations could be invalid or unreliable.

Question 5

What are the strengths of Qualitative data?

Answer 5

Qualitative data is very descriptive and therefore gives insight into the reasons for behaviour and so is more likely to be valid.

Question 6

What are the weaknesses of Qualitative data?

Answer 6

Qualitative data is difficult to interpret and make comparisons between participants and therefore researcher bias is more likely to invalidate results.