Res wk 8 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Res wk 8 - Essay Example Qualitative and quantitative researches both have their strengths and weaknesses as well as their contributions to analyze various issues have a unique and conclusive approach. That being said, it is quantitative research that I am more drawn towards. The exploratory and in depth analyses that it entails seems to offer much more in terms of formulating an understanding of a certain concept. Compared to the open and the personal elements that qualitative research comprises of qualitative research is more prone towards numbers, formulas and models that determine a basic link between variables. I feel that qualitative research merely scratches the surface whereas qualitative research dives deep into the problem and looks at the personal experiences of participants through the use of surveys and interviews all of which aim at analyzing thoughts and emotions attached to the issue under investigation. Having always been drawn to words, images and descriptions basing a perspective on number s has never appealed to me. Furthermore I feel as a researcher the contribution that you can put into qualitative research has a more unique and challenging touch to it as you get to know your subjects for what they truly are; compared to that quantitative research seems dry as you analyze and compare numbers and formulas to come to a conclusion. Assignment 4 The argument presented by the writer is much like that of my own opinion when it comes to the debate of qualitative vs. quantitative research. In fact it brings to my mind this interesting article that I had read online called ‘The Qualitative-Quantitative Debate’, during my research. It talks about how the debate between the differences between and relative advantages of qualitative and quantitative methods has been one on which considerable energy has been expended. So much that it is referred to as a ‘hot-button’ issue in social research. It then goes on to delivering a interesting perspective to th e issue (one that I found very fascinating) about there being little differences between qualitative and quantitative data. The pillars for the writer’s argument are firstly that ‘All qualitative data can be coded quantitatively’, that is, anything that is qualitative can be assigned meaningful numerical values. Second, All quantitative data is based on qualitative judgment that is numbers in and of themselves can't be interpreted without understanding the assumptions which underlie them. References Trochim. W. (2006). The Qualitative-Quantitative Debate. Knowledge base. Retrieved from: http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/qualdeb.php Response to professor assignment 1. I understand the common error I made during the formulation of my research question merely because I associated qualitative research questions firmly on their nature to investigate why something is the way it is. However as far as Creswell (2009) suggestion that we avoid using the word ‘w hy’ I will reformulate by question from: ‘Why do juveniles commit crimes?’ to ‘What are the reasons that contribute to juveniles ability to commit crimes?’ I went through the aspect of interpretive inquiry again and I see how I