05 Jan Qualitative vs. Quantitative Methods

Purpose  

This discussion is intended to help you achieve the following:

· Identify the strengths and limitations of qualitative and quantitative methods.

· Provide examples that illustrate the application of qualitative and quantitative methods in research.

· Engage in scholarly discussion with peers to enhance collective understanding.

Overview 

In this discussion forum, you will compare and contrast qualitative and quantitative research methods. This assignment aims to deepen your understanding of the strengths, limitations, and appropriate applications of each method. You will engage with your peers by sharing examples from peer-reviewed research articles to illustrate the differences between these approaches.

Action Items 

1. By  Thursday, create a post sharing the following:

· Strengths and Limitations: Compare the strengths and limitations of qualitative and quantitative methods. Consider aspects such as depth of understanding, generalizability, and potential biases.

· Examples: Provide at least two examples of peer-reviewed research studies (one qualitative and one quantitative) that illustrate the application of each method. Describe the research questions, methods used, and key findings of each study. Be sure to include full citations and links to the articles.

· Personal Reflection: Reflect on your own research interests and consider which method (or combination of methods) might be most appropriate for your research. Explain your reasoning.

1-4: Reflexive Journal Due Jan 11

Purpose

This assignment is intended to help you: 

· Develop self-awareness and reflexivity in qualitative research.

· Critically engage with course readings, discussions, and research activities.

· Document personal growth and learning throughout the course.

· Identify and reflect on ethical considerations and challenges encountered in qualitative research.

Overview

Throughout this course, you will maintain a weekly reflexive journal to document your learning experiences, thoughts, and feelings as you engage with course material and conduct qualitative research. Reflexive journaling is an essential practice in qualitative research, helping researchers become more aware of their biases, assumptions, and the impact of their positionality on the research process.

Action Items

1. Reflect on your weekly learning. Consider insights gained from course materials and qualitative research activities. Identify any significant “aha” moments, challenges, or lessons learned.

2. Write a 1- to 2-page journal entry (typed, double-spaced) that addresses the following topics (but is not limited to them):

· Reflection on Course Material: Discuss your thoughts and reactions to the readings, meet sessions, and discussions. Which concepts resonated with you? What questions or concerns arose?

· Research Activities: Reflect on any qualitative research activities conducted, such as interviews, observations, or data analysis. What challenges did you encounter, and how did you address them?

· Personal Insights: Consider how your background, experiences, and positionality influence your understanding of the research process and the data you collect. What biases or assumptions have you identified in yourself?

· Ethical Considerations: Reflect on any ethical dilemmas faced in your research and how you navigated them.