CMN 2101 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Life Studies, Consistency, Falsifiability

• School: University of Ottawa
• Department: Communication
• Course: CMN 2101
• Professor: Mohammed El Hashash

Document Summary

In qualitative research, we create theory as a result of our observations (inductive); quantitative starts with a theory we want to test (deductive: the nature of the data itself, soft data: words, sentences, photos, etc. ; dictate qualitative research strategies: hard data: in the form of numbers; dictate quantitative research strategies. In a quantitative study, we are usually trying to verify or falsify a relationship or hypothesis we already have in mind; focus is on an outcome or effect found across numerous cases. Linear path is logical and easy to follow, while nonlinear can be highly effective in creating an authentic understanding of an entire setting. Linear path borrows from natural science and with its emphasis on logic and precision, while nonlinear borrows from the humanities and is suited for tasks such as translating languages. Researchers test hypotheses that are stated at the beginning. Concepts are in the form of distinct variables.