Reflect on your learning about Quantitative and Qualitative research; share two ways that helped you understand how they are different.

Both quantitative and qualitative approaches have their own advantages and disadvantages. Quantitative data is collected by surveys and experiments to help draw conclusions. Qualitative research typically involves more open-ended conversations with individuals—interviews or focus groups—and is used to gain deeper insight into the attitudes, beliefs, and motivations of people within a specific context.

It was helpful to see examples in practice of how each method differs. My professor demonstrated how, for example, a qualitative study involved interviewing participants who were selected based on their individual perspectives about voting. The differences in these approaches helped me to better distinguish them.

Comparative case studies were another helpful way to understand the difference between qualitative and quantitative techniques. They showed how each method could be used in order to answer a similar question but produce quite different results. By following along with these studies step by step, it became easier for me to grasp why one method might be better suited than another depending on what kind of information you’re hoping to uncover from your own investigation. Overall, this experience gave me a much better understanding of which type of technique I should use for different kinds of projects depending upon the type of insights I’m striving for as well as the resources available at my disposal.