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This numerical data always involves judgments what the number means. For this reason, Trochim concludes that quantitative and qualitative data are virtually inseparable, since "(n) exists in a vacuum or can be considered totally devoid of the other."
Ferch (1998) also explores the difference between quantitative and qualitative research. He notes that q) uantitative research is objective; qualitative research is subjective. Quantitative research seeks explanatory laws; qualitative research aims at in-depth description. Quantitative research measures what it assumes to be a static reality in hopes of developing universal laws. Qualitative research is an exploration of what is assumed to be a dynamic reality. It does not claim that what is discovered in the process is universal and, thus, replicable.
Perhaps the most insightful finding Ferch discovers in his exploration is that research is conducted in the real world, and therefore often does not fit into the ideal paradigms of either or research methodology exactly.
He notes that the dualistic thought, either/or dichotomy, is dangerous. and, that it is often the taking these two disparate types of research out of the ideal and into the real world where people become confused.
Method:
The researchers both used qualitative and quantitative methods for proving their point that neither research type can stand alone in the real world; however no data, other than their own experiential data was collected. Therefore, the sample size was considerably small. They used this...
Both researchers concluded that research in the real world cannot be conducted without both qualitative and quantitative methods. The real world does not allow for the vacuum that needs to exist for only one of the methods.
Discussion:
In the end, the debate of the effectiveness and efficiency of qualitative research vs. quantitative research seems to be a moot point. Both Ferch and Trochim agreed that they are both necessary components of research. Those researchers who rely on qualitative measures must use quantitative measures in their analysis and vice versa. This was clearly demonstrated by both researchers. Recommendations include continued research on how qualitative and quantitative research are not mutually exclusive. More information needs to be gathered on this connectivity to further the efforts of researchers in a variety of fields as well as assist in the better understanding of what strengths each offers and how best to utilize them to further research.
References
Ferch, S. (11 Feb 1998). Quantitative vs. qualitative research: An attempt to clarify the problem. Retrieved October 2, 2006, at http://home.comcast.net/~lady.socrates/qvq.html.
Trochim, M.K. (10 Aug 2006). The qualitative-quantitative debate. Retrieved October 2, 2006, at http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/qualdeb.htm.
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