One way to develop a greater understanding of quantitative research is by contrasting it to qualitative research. While a quantitative degree program will focus on numerical data, a qualitative program evaluates non-numerical data from sources such as text, focus groups or interviews.2
As you consider which type of program to enroll in, consider your personal preferences and interests in research. For example, a doctoral student who chooses a quantitative doctoral degree is interested in challenging or proving a theory using data. In contrast, someone who chooses a qualitative degree program is primarily interested in enhancing the academic field’s understanding of various concepts or experiences.
Looking at a Hypothetical Case Study
Let’s take a closer look at quantitative vs. qualitative degrees using a hypothetical case study. Matilda and Davonte are both studying for their Doctor of Education (EdD) degrees. They want to study the impact of parental support on student performance in low-performing school districts. Matilda’s design involves pulling archival data on student grades and comparing it to a Likert-scale survey she sent to students and parents to report their level of involvement. Davonte is taking a random sample of students in the district and conducting interviews and focus groups with them and their parents about achievement, motivation and involvement.
Both Matilda and Davonte are studying the same general topic, and they could come to similar conclusions. However, they are going about their respective projects in two completely different ways. Matilda’s quantitative research is looking to find a correlation between self-reported parental involvement and student grades. In contrast, Davonte’s qualitative research of interviews explores the student and parent experience, getting to themes and concepts tied to motivation and success.
This highlights another difference between quantitative and qualitative programs. Students conducting quantitative research generally begin with a hypothesis that they set out to challenge or confirm. In contrast, those conducting qualitative research won’t necessarily start with a hypothesis, but with broader research questions to provide a guide to gather deep insights into a concept.
Here’s a closer look at some of the main differences between quantitative and qualitative research. Quantitative research:
- Uses statistical analysis tools
- Is usually expressed in numbers, charts and graphs
- Requires a large group of study participants
- Gathers data using closed questions
In contrast, qualitative research:
- Uses categorizing, summarizing and interpreting to develop understanding
- Is usually expressed in codes, themes and narrative rather than numbers
- Can use a small group of study participants
- Gathers data using open-ended questions
