Scientific research employs three primary methods in the collection and analysis of data. These are quantitative, qualitative, and mixed research methods. The quantitative method heavily relies on measurement and statistical, numerical and mathematical data analysis. This method entails such approaches as questionnaires, polling as well as surveys. Likewise, computations are used to manipulate the statistical data . On the other hand, the qualitative method employs descriptive narrative and is, therefore, more exploratory. As a result, it is beneficial in expounding on the underlying issues that surround research efforts. Mixed research method combines both descriptive and numerical analysis to examine particular factors. However, the most appropriate method to use in research depends on the research question (Gunnel, 2016). This paper will highlight how the three methods differ , describe the design of scientific inquiry associated with each method , and identify which method is preferable for researching on Juvenile delinquency in urban areas.
Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed method s and the design of scientific inquiry that may go with each method
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Scientific discovery is the basis of quantitative method. This is informed by the notion that “traditional scientific method is the best…to conduct research” (Gerdes & Conn, 2001). The method heavily relies on numerical data, springing from experiments and surveys. Results from quantitative methods are also generalizable in larger populations. Experimental design quantitative research is conducted in a laboratory setting where variables are controlled, leading to causation. Thus, experimental designs allow for the study of unique traits of variables with measurable contributions. The non-experimental designs, on the other hand, include survey, observation, and other associated methods of collecting numerical data. For instance, surveys retrieve information about factors from participants within a population using structured interviews or questionnaires (Gunnel, 2016).
Qualitative research approach usually analyzes and evaluates non-numerical evidence about certain factors. These methods are aimed at elaborating and drawing conclusions from intangible facts such as behaviors. These methods are used in studies involving relationships between individuals and their surroundings, and the motives behind people’s actions. The method does not use rigid rules about specific issues but rather derives information from the data itself. Qualitative method is flexible and allows procedure alteration because the technique arises from the arrays established in statistics. For instance, phenomenology qualitative method has no formal guidelines of undertaking research. The process searches for meaning through perception and is grounded in experience rather than physical apprehensions. On the other hand, ethnography involves the collection of observational data from people in their natural settings over time—aptly described as the study of human cultures. In grounded theory of qualitative research, every step is informed by the preceding one. The process derives theory based on emerging patterns. Finally, case studies give a deeper understanding of habits, events, and population during particular periods (Gunnel, 2016).
Mixed method research utilizes both quantitative and qualitative data in carrying out an investigation. The method has “philosophical assumptions as well as methods of inquiry” (Creswell & Clark, 2007). The assumptions guide the direction of collecting and analyzing data with the combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches. The central premise of the method is that combination of numerical and non-numerical methods leads to improved understanding of factors that either of the approaches employs. When only one method is used , the scope of research is restrained to particular boundaries. Thus, the mixed methods offer concepts about an issue on unrelated levels. There are no clear guidelines on how to combine qualitative and quantitative data. Mainly, mixed methods are used for triangulation to establish and enhance study validity. Triangulation also assists in illustrating the research interpretations for better and adequate understanding Also, using the method lessens bias in research outcome (Ellis et al., 2010).
Most preferred method and design
Qualitative and quantitative methods are the fundamental approaches on which mixed method is built . The quantitative method uses numerical data while qualitative method utilizes descriptive information. Because both qualitative and quantitative methods have limitations; the mixed method is appropriate and preferable for conducting research. Thus, this approach would be appropriate in doing research on juvenile delinquency in urban areas. This is because t he method cushions researchers from criticism by canceling out the limits of one method using the other Moreover, the method triangulates research outcome and offers higher legitimacy and dependability. Therefore, despite the time, effort, and potential cost, mixed method is the most appropriate approach for this investigation.
References
Creswell, J. W., & Clark, V. L. P. (2007). Designing and conducting mixed methods research . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, Inc.
Ellis, L., Hartley, R. D., & Walsh, A. (2010). Research methods in criminal justice and criminology: An interdisciplinary approach . Rowman & Littlefield.
Gerdes, D. A., & Conn, J. (2001). A user-friendly look at qualitative research methods. Physical Educator , 58 (4), 183.
Gunnell, M. (2016). Research Methodologies: A Comparison of Quantitative, Qualitative and Mixed Methods. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/research-methodologies-comparison-quantitative-mixed-methods-gunnell
