How does quantitative research differ from qualitative research?

Quantitative research is characterized by its emphasis on numerical data and statistical analysis to identify patterns, relationships, and trends within the data. This approach often involves structured methods such as surveys or experiments that yield quantifiable results. By focusing on numbers, quantitative research enables researchers to conduct statistical tests, which can provide insights about the significance of the findings and help generalize results across larger populations.

In contrast, qualitative research typically explores non-numerical data, such as interviews, observations, and open-ended survey responses, to gain a deeper understanding of complex human behaviors and experiences. It seeks to explain the meaning behind phenomena rather than simply quantify them. While the aim of quantitative research might be to establish causal relationships through statistical analysis, qualitative research delves into the richness of human experience, providing context and depth that numbers alone cannot capture.

The availability of both approaches is valuable in health science research, where quantitative data can inform evidence-based practice while qualitative insights can enhance the understanding of patient needs and experiences.