Semester 2 2025 – DUE 2025; 100% correct solutions
and explanations.
QUESTION 1
Key Differences Between Qualitative and Quantitative Research
Approaches
1. Research Aims
Qualitative research aims to explore and understand
phenomena in depth, focusing on the meaning, experiences,
and perspectives of participants. It is often used to investigate
complex social or behavioural issues where little is known, and
it seeks to answer “how” and “why” questions.
Example: A study exploring how teachers adapt lesson plans
for learners with special needs.
Quantitative research aims to measure variables and test
hypotheses by examining relationships or differences between
them. It focuses on producing objective, numerical evidence to
support generalisations and answer “what,” “how many,” or
“to what extent” questions.
Example: A study measuring the effect of a new teaching
method on learners’ mathematics test scores.
2. Types of Data Collected
Qualitative research collects non-numerical data, such as
words, images, videos, or audio recordings. The data is often
descriptive and gathered through methods like interviews,
focus groups, observations, and document analysis.
Example: Interview transcripts from participants describing
their experiences of workplace stress.