Qualitative vs. Quantitative Paradigms



Qualitative vs. Quantitative ParadigmsMonica R. WoodsUniversity Of PhoenixApril 20, 2015Qualitative vs. Quantitative ParadigmsThe process understanding of qualitative and quantitative paradigms is very sophisticated. The field of research is full of terminology that further widens the scope of ability to recognize the various elements that are associated with research methods. We must learn the vocabulary in order to comprehend what research is all about and competent in the research methods and how to approach research in order to be an effective researcher. In this paper, I will attempt to discuss my understanding and recognition of the relationship that may exist between my worldview and qualitative and quantitative paradigms. I will begin by discussing my recently gained knowledge of my worldview and how I may align it with both qualitative and quantitative models of research.How Does My Worldview Align with the Qualitative Paradigm?I will discuss qualitative research paradigm. In qualitative research, the researcher is looking for answers to a question in a systematic manner. According to Creswell (2014), qualitative research involves studies of cultures including language, families, social organizations, and social class. The worldview that I closely associate with is the constructivist worldview. A Constructivist believes that knowledge is constructed through social interaction. Social constructivists state, “individuals seek understanding of the world in which they live and work.” (Creswell, 2014) A constructivist's worldview aligns with qualitative research in the manner for which there is an active interest in a group culture or background in order “to make sense of the meanings others have of their world.” (Creswell, 2014). The constructivist researcher would align, best with qualitative research since both paradigms are fully engaged in the use of observation and interviews with groups of people in order to gather information to show the social interactions of a group (Creswell, 2014). How Does My Worldview Align with the Quantitative Approach?On the other hand, quantitative research aligns more with positivism where researchers work in absolutes for truth and would likely interpret cultural observations as valid data to its research (Sale et al, 2002). Quantitative research uses variables collected by instruments of numbered data (Creswell, 2014). A constructivist would view such data and relate it to multiple meanings to gain understanding of the relationship among the group being studied. According to Creswell (2014), the method of constructivist research in would not align with the non-experimental approach of the quantitative paradigm. Constructivist worldview lacks the phenomena and empirical qualities that represent the truth.ConclusionIt is imperative for a researcher to have a clear understanding of which paradigm is the correct choice for your study. It is equally as important to align your worldview with the paradigm that will progress your research. Qualitative paradigms seem to align best with the constructivist worldview. The qualitative method allows the researcher to become immersed in culture or group that is being studied to observe interactions among the group in their ordinary lives (Creswell, 2014). Because quantitative paradigms believe there is one truth and is data driven, constructivist worldview does not align with it, therefore, the constructivist researcher should not elect to use the quantitative paradigm method alone in research.ReferencesCreswell, J. W. (2014). Research Design: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approach (4th ed.). Los Angeles, California: Sage Publications, Ltd.Sale, J. E., Lohfeld, L. H., & Brazil, K.?(2002).?Institute for Work and Health, 36(1), 43-53. Retrieved?from? ................
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