Research Approaches in Education: A Comparison of Quantitative, Qualitative and Mixed Methods
Joseph Dave Pregoner
Abstract:
This paper dissects three fundamental research approaches in education: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. Each offers distinct strengths for investigating educational phenomena, evaluating teaching practices, and informing policy. Qualitative research explores into participants’ experiences and contexts, yielding rich, detailed insights. Conversely, quantitative research prioritizes numerical data and statistical analysis, providing objective and generalizable findings. Mixed methods research strategically combines both approaches, fostering a comprehensive understanding and robust validation through triangulation. By unpacking the unique contributions of each approach, this analysis underscores the importance of selecting the most suitable methodology to effectively address specific research questions.
Keywords: research approaches, qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods
Indexing
