STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS OF QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS

Authors

  • André Queirós Higher Polytechnic Institute of Gaya, V. N. Gaia, Portugal
  • Daniel Faria Higher Polytechnic Institute of Gaya, V. N. Gaia, Portugal
  • Fernando Almeida Faculty of Engineering of Oporto University, INESC TEC, Porto, Portugal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejes.v0i0.1017

Keywords:

research methods, qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis, research process

Abstract

Scientific research adopts qualitative and quantitative methodologies in the modeling and analysis of numerous phenomena. The qualitative methodology intends to understand a complex reality and the meaning of actions in a given context. On the other hand, the quantitative methodology seeks to obtain accurate and reliable measurements that allow a statistical analysis. Both methodologies offer a set of methods, potentialities and limitations that must be explored and known by researchers. This paper concisely maps a total of seven qualitative methods and five quantitative methods. A comparative analysis of the most relevant and adopted methods is done to understand the main strengths and limitations of them. Additionally, the work developed intends to be a fundamental reference for the accomplishment of a research study, in which the researcher intends to adopt a qualitative or quantitative methodology. Through the analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of each method, it becomes possible to formulate a more accurate, informed and complete choice.

 

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Published

2017-09-07

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