Assessment 2
Semester 2 2025
Due Year 2025
,SEP3707
Assessment 2
Semester 2 2025
Due Year 2025
Criminal Justice Research Methodology
Contents
QUESTION 1 .................................................................................................................. 2
1.1 Research Aims ...................................................................................................... 2
1.2 Types of Data Collected ........................................................................................ 3
1.3 Data Analysis Methods .......................................................................................... 3
1.4 Illustrative Examples .............................................................................................. 4
QUESTION 2.1 ............................................................................................................... 5
QUESTION 2.2 ............................................................................................................... 7
QUESTION 2.3 ............................................................................................................... 8
QUESTION 2.4 ............................................................................................................... 9
QUESTION 2.5 ............................................................................................................. 10
QUESTION 2.6 ............................................................................................................. 11
QUESTION 2.7 ............................................................................................................. 13
QUESTION 2.8 ............................................................................................................. 15
References .................................................................................................................... 17
, QUESTION 1
Explain the key differences between qualitative and quantitative research
approaches. Discuss the typical research aims associated with each approach,
types of data collected, and data analysis methods. Provide examples to illustrate
your explanation.
Qualitative and quantitative research constitute two primary methodological paradigms
in the social sciences, underpinned by fundamentally different epistemological and
philosophical orientations. Qualitative research is rooted in the interpretivist tradition
and operates inductively, aiming to uncover the subjective meanings individuals assign
to their experiences and social contexts (Queirós, Faria, & Almeida, 2017; Rahman,
2017). In contrast, quantitative research is grounded in the positivist paradigm and
follows a deductive logic, seeking to measure phenomena objectively, test hypotheses,
and generalise findings across populations (Babbie, 2020; Kothari, 2004).
1.1 Research Aims
• Qualitative Research:
The primary aim is to produce rich, contextualised insights into phenomena that
cannot be easily quantified. Such studies are often exploratory, generating new
theories or conceptual frameworks through deep engagement with participants’
lived realities. Research questions frequently begin with “why” or “how”, focusing
on understanding motivations, perceptions, and social meanings (Babbie, 2020).
• Quantitative Research:
The central aim is to measure variables, examine relationships, and establish
causal linkages under controlled conditions. This approach typically tests pre-
existing theories or hypotheses, with questions often framed as “how many” or
“how much”, focusing on identifying measurable trends and statistically
significant relationships (Kothari, 2004).