Describe the key differences between each type of qualitative and quantitative research. Provide a workplace example in which qualitative and quantitative research has been applied and how it has been used within your organization. When replying to peers, discuss how these research findings might be incorporated into another health care setting.
Key Differences Between Qualitative and Quantitative Research
Feature | Qualitative Research | Quantitative Research |
---|---|---|
Data Collection Methods | Interviews, observations, focus groups, document analysis | Surveys, experiments, structured observations |
Data Analysis | Thematic analysis, content analysis, narrative analysis | Statistical analysis |
Research Goal | To understand the meaning and interpretation of phenomena | To measure variables and test hypotheses |
Data Type | Words, images, videos | Numbers, statistics |
Sample Size | Small, purposive sample | Large, random sample |
Workplace Example: Implementing a New Electronic Health Record (EHR) System
Qualitative Research:
- Focus groups with healthcare providers: To understand their concerns, challenges, and expectations regarding the new EHR system.
- Interviews with key stakeholders: To gather in-depth insights into their perspectives and experiences.
- Observation of workflow: To identify areas of inefficiency and potential bottlenecks in the current system.
Quantitative Research:
- Surveys of healthcare providers and patients: To assess satisfaction levels, perceived ease of use, and perceived impact on patient care.
- Data analysis of EHR usage patterns: To identify trends and patterns in system usage, such as frequency of use, time spent on tasks, and error rates.
How the Research Findings Were Used:
- Qualitative findings:
- Informed the design and implementation of training programs to address specific concerns and challenges identified by healthcare providers.
- Helped identify areas where system customization was needed to improve workflow and user experience
Key Differences Between Qualitative and Quantitative Research
Feature | Qualitative Research | Quantitative Research |
---|---|---|
Data Collection Methods | Interviews, observations, focus groups, document analysis | Surveys, experiments, structured observations |
Data Analysis | Thematic analysis, content analysis, narrative analysis | Statistical analysis |
Research Goal | To understand the meaning and interpretation of phenomena | To measure variables and test hypotheses |
Data Type | Words, images, videos | Numbers, statistics |
Sample Size | Small, purposive sample | Large, random sample |
Workplace Example: Implementing a New Electronic Health Record (EHR) System
Qualitative Research:
- Focus groups with healthcare providers: To understand their concerns, challenges, and expectations regarding the new EHR system.
- Interviews with key stakeholders: To gather in-depth insights into their perspectives and experiences.
- Observation of workflow: To identify areas of inefficiency and potential bottlenecks in the current system.
Quantitative Research:
- Surveys of healthcare providers and patients: To assess satisfaction levels, perceived ease of use, and perceived impact on patient care.
- Data analysis of EHR usage patterns: To identify trends and patterns in system usage, such as frequency of use, time spent on tasks, and error rates.
How the Research Findings Were Used:
- Qualitative findings:
- Informed the design and implementation of training programs to address specific concerns and challenges identified by healthcare providers.
- Helped identify areas where system customization was needed to improve workflow and user experience