Discuss the role of objectivity and subjectivity in qualitative and quantitative scientific inquiries
2. Identify the key types of designs used in quantitative methods of inquiry
3. Identify the phases of the research process and the ways in which they are similar and different in quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods of inquiry.
Quantitative research designs are structured to test hypotheses and establish generalizable facts through statistical analysis. They primarily fall into three categories:
Experimental Designs: Used to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
True Experiments: Involve random assignment of participants to at least two groups (treatment and control), manipulation of an independent variable, and control over extraneous variables.
Quasi-Experiments: Lack random assignment but still involve manipulating a variable or observing groups under controlled conditions.
Correlational Designs: Used to determine the nature, strength, and direction of a relationship between two or more variables.
Example: Measuring the correlation between hours studied and exam scores. No variables are manipulated; the researcher simply observes and measures existing data.
Descriptive Designs: Used to accurately and systematically describe a population, situation, or phenomenon. They focus on "what is" rather than "why."
Examples: Surveys to determine the prevalence of a disease, or market research to assess consumer habits.
The overall research process involves defining a problem, collecting data, and drawing conclusions, but the emphasis and techniques within each phase differ significantly based on the methodology:
The role of objectivity and subjectivity fundamentally distinguishes quantitative and qualitative research methodologies:
| Inquiry Type | Primary Goal & View of Reality | Role of Objectivity | Role of Subjectivity |
| Quantitative | Seeks to measure and test relationships among variables. Assumes an objective reality exists independent of the observer (Positivism). | High. Objectivity is the gold standard. The researcher must remain detached and unbiased to ensure the findings (numerical data) accurately reflect external reality and are replicable. | Low (Ideallly Absent). Subjective bias is seen as a threat to validity. The researcher's perspective should not influence the collection or interpretation of data. |
| Qualitative | Seeks to understand meaning, experience, and context. Assumes reality is socially constructed and context-dependent (Interpretivism). | Low. While ethical rigor is required, true detachment is considered impossible and undesirable. Objectivity is replaced by trustworthiness or credibility. | High. Subjectivity is essential and leveraged. The researcher's empathy, interpretation, and interaction with participants are critical to uncovering rich, nuanced meanings and contextual understanding. |
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