Unit 22. P3

Megan Middleton Understanding research methodology Unit 22 P3


P3- Compare different research methodologies for health and social care.

Assess appropriateness and value

Quantitative
This is pieces of data which can be counted, this may then be converted into a percentage. This
information may be collected by surveys which will be completed by the selected respondents.
Quantitative research is used to develop the following models;
 Mathematical
 Theories
 Hypotheses

A number of scientific methods are used when carrying out quantitative research, this are;

 Develop a theory and hypothesis of what the researcher wants to find
 Finding a way of measuring the data
 Identifying variables
 Collecting the data
 Analysing the data
 Evaluating the results

Strengths of this method are;

 Data is reliable and consistent
 Easy to analyse
 Findings can be generalised

Weaknesses of this method are;

 Data may not be strong enough
 Difficulty understanding the context
 Little or no access to data

Qualitative
Qualitative data is collected by observing, carrying out interviews, written documents or case
studies. Researchers focus on why people think and behave the way they do. The aim of this
research method is to complete a detailed description of the findings regarding the topic.
Strengths of this method are;

 Data is cost effective
 More details are provided
 There are a number of ways to collect data
 It works well with quantitative data

Weaknesses of this method are;

 It is time consuming
 Do not fit in with other findings
 Findings cannot be generalised

Primary
Primary research is collected first hand; this may be done by the following;