102 4.1.3 Overview of Research Methods

Two types of research methods utilized are quantitative and qualitative studies. The main difference between quantitative and qualitative research is the type of data they collect and analyze.

Quantitative studies

• Collect numerical data and analyze it using statistical methods
• Produce objective, empirical data that can be measured and expressed in numerical terms
• Used to describe, predict, control variables of interest & generalize findings
• Purpose is to test hypotheses, identify patterns, and make predictions
• Types of quantitative studies: feasibility, pragmatic, cohort, and randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies

Statistics:

• Statistics help us turn quantitative data into useful information to help with decision-making
• Used to summarize our data, describing patterns, relationships, and connections
• Can be descriptive or inferential

Qualitative Studies

• The results of qualitative methods provide a deep understanding of how people perceive their social realities and in consequence, how they act within the social world.
• Data is expressed in words or observations
• Data related to concepts, opinions, values, behaviours, perspectives & lived experiences of persons in the natural & social context
• Types of qualitative studies: case study research, interpretive description, phenomenology & ethnography

Methods for collecting empirical materials:

• Interviews and focus groups
• Direct observation
• Analysis of artifacts, documents, and cultural records
• Use of visual materials or personal experience