What are the advantages of qualitative research?

Posted on 2nd November 2010 in Research Methods

Some of the advantages of qualitative research are as follows:

  • It enables more complex aspects of a persons experience to be studied
  • Fewer restriction or assumptions are placed on the data to be collected.  For example, if I measure depression by asking ten 1-7 scale questions, I can only collect data on these ten things I’m asking about
  • Not everything can be quantified, or quantified easily, and an advantage of qualitative research is that it can investigate these things (for example, individual experiences)
  • Individuals can be studied in more depth
  • Because fewer assumptions are placed on the thing being studied it is great for exploratory research and hypothesis generation
  • The participants are able to provide data in their own words and in their own way
comments: 11 »

11 Responses to “What are the advantages of qualitative research?”

  1. jam man says:

    i like jam

  2. jam man says:

    B bien bon pu zot. =D
    are you 6? jam man? xD

  3. mollusk. says:

    Jams fucked.

  4. JJ says:

    My question is in regard to ABA research methods. Here’s the scenario; Sara, a 14-year-old girl with severe developmental delays who exhibits self-injurious behavior. The self-injurious behaviors include pulling her hair, biting her arm and banging her head against the wall. What type of research design would an ABA professional employ when working with Sara? I considered ABAB research method, but got confused. Please help ASAP!!!

    • Answers says:

      JJ,

      Sorry, but I don’t feel comfortable commenting on that — please consult a qualified specialist instead.

      Good luck
      Warren

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