Quantitative and qualitative data can be collected using various methods. It is important to use a data collection method to help answer your research question(s).
Many data collection methods can be either qualitative or quantitative. For example, in surveys, observational studies or case studies, your data can be represented as numbers (e.g., using rating scales or counting frequencies) or as words (e.g., with open-ended questions or descriptions of what you observe).
However, some methods are more commonly used in one type or the other.
| Quantitative | Qualitative |
|
Surveys: List of closed or multiple choice questions that are distributed to a sample (online, in person, or over the phone). |
Interviews: Asking open-ended questions verbally to respondents. |
|
Experiments: Situations in which different variables are controlled and manipulated to establish cause-and-effect relationships. |
Focus groups: Discussion among a group of people about a topic to gather opinions that can be used for further research. |
|
Observations: Observing subjects in a natural environment where variables can’t be controlled |
Ethnography: Participating in a community or organization for an extended period to closely observe culture and behavior. |
|
Literature review: Survey of published works by other authors. |
Encyclopedia of Survey Research Methods
In conjunction with top survey researchers around the world and with Nielsen Media Research serving as the corporate sponsor, the Encyclopedia of Survey Research Methods presents state-of-the-art information and methodological examples from the field of survey research. Although there are other "how-to" guides and references texts on survey research, none is as comprehensive as this Encyclopedia, and none presents the material in such a focused and approachable manner. With more than 600 entries, this resource uses a Total Survey Error perspective that considers all aspects of possible survey error from a cost-benefit standpoint.
The SAGE Encyclopedia of Qualitative Research Methods
Defines and explains core concepts, describes the techniques involved in the implementation of qualitative methods, and presents an overview of qualitative approaches to research. Covers every major facet of qualitative methods, including access to research participants, data coding, research ethics, and the role of theory in qualitative research
Description based on print version record
Handbook of Quantitative Methods for Educational Research
eBook. As part of their research activities, researchers in all areas of education develop measuring instruments, design and conduct experiments and surveys, and analyze data resulting from these activities. Educational research has a strong tradition of employing state-of-the-art statistical and psychometric (psychological measurement) techniques. Commonly referred to as quantitative methods, these techniques cover a range of statistical tests and tools. Quantitative research is essentially about collecting numerical data to explain a particular phenomenon of interest. Over the years, many methods and models have been developed to address the increasingly complex issues that educational researchers seek to address. This handbook serves to act as a reference for educational researchers and practitioners who desire to acquire knowledge and skills in quantitative methods for data analysis or to obtain deeper insights from published works. Written by experienced researchers and educators, each chapter in this handbook covers a methodological topic with attention paid to the theory, procedures, and the challenges on the use of that particular methodology. It is hoped that readers will come away from each chapter with a greater understanding of the methodology being addressed as well as an understanding of the directions for future developments within that methodological area.
Use of RIT resources is reserved for current RIT students, faculty
and staff for academic and teaching purposes only.
Please contact your librarian with any questions.
