Quantitative Versus Qualitative Research Dichotomies: A Discussion from Educational Measurement and Evaluation Perspective

Abstract

How do we decide whether to use a quantitative or qualitative methodology for our study? Quantitative and qualitative research (are they a dichotomy or different ends on a continuum?). How do we analyse and write the results of a study for the research article or our thesis? Further questions can be asked such as; is the paradigm same as research design? How can we spot a paradigm in our research article? Although the questions are answered quietly explicitly, the discussion on the paradigm and research design remains technical. This can be evidenced by the confusion that people still face in differentiating between a paradigm, methodology, approach and design when doing research. The confusion is further worsened by the quantitative versus qualitative research dichotomies. This article addresses quantitative and qualitative research while discussing scientific research paradigms from educational measurement and evaluation perspective.

Keywords: Paradigm, Methodology, Approach, Quantitative, Qualitative

DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/11-24-01

Publication date: December 31^st 2021