Sociology 2206A/B : Qualitative vs Quantitative

• School: Western University
• Department: Sociology
• Course: Sociology 2206A/B
• Professor: Ryan Broll

Document Summary

Relies on positivist approach to social science. Emphasizes precisely measuring variables and testing hypotheses. Goal of research: draw representative sample from huge number of cases to intensely study sampled cases. Information in forms of numbers (hard data) Used in descriptive research & explanatory research. Emphasizes conducting detailed examinations of cases arising in natural flow of social life. Deviant case sampling (nonrandom sample where researcher selects unusual or nonconforming cases purposely as a way to provide insight into social processes or a setting) Information in forms of words, pictures, sounds, visuals (soft data) Used in exploratory research & descriptive research (purpose) Most closely aligned with interpretive and critical paradigms. Research is more non-linear and cyclical paradigms (purpose is to construct meaning) Examine social processes and cases in their social context. Conceptualization and operationalization occur simultaneously with data collection and preliminary data analysis. Emphasizes social context for understanding social world. Not all use similar hard and fast structure copy.