The Comparative Method: Going Beyond the Debate of Qualitative and Quantitative Thinking

The Comparative Method: Going Beyond the Debate of Qualitative and Quantitative Thinking

When it comes to research, we ought to determine the proper methodology in gathering and analyzing data. This way, we can properly prove a point and get our message across. 

However, our options are constrained to two general approaches: quantitative and qualitative. While both of these methods are effective to some degree, they have their limits as we will discuss later.

In this article, we will go over the definition and differences of Quantitative and Qualitative thinking as well as its limitations. We will then introduce an approach that can better improve how we process information using other alternative methods.

What Counts in Quantitative Approach

By definition, the quantitative approach is generally used in research as a relatively accurate method in measuring data. The material, however, determines the degree of accuracy, given that it can be administered as an intelligence questionnaire or an ad hoc survey.

Generally, this approach is usually supported with an evaluation for stability and reliability. This way, the research can be considered valid in confidence.

A quantitative approach is an effective approach in the following circumstances:

• Data in the research involves large samples
• There is a reduced time resource to support research hours
• Data utilized required proof to warrant the positive evaluation of administrators
• The research is in the interest of projecting and estimating particular factors in the future like effect, performance, cost, etc.

What Matters in Qualitative Approach

On the other hand, qualitative thinking is defined as the development of ideas, hypotheses, and conclusions with regard to a particular context. In research, it is generally considered as a less structured method of data collection and analysis.

This kind of approach aims to establish an encompassing idea, instead of generalizing the interpretation of the data. This is why the qualitative approach effectively forms the basis of pilot studies. Good examples of this would include essay questionnaires, interviews, and group discussions or forums.

A quantitative approach is an effective approach in the following circumstances:

• The aim of the study is social, psychological, behavioral, and the like.
• An area of interest is available but the research has no focus or is still conclusively open-ended
• The study, by nature, is long-term with many variables and scope adjustments.

Research Method Limitations

While both quantitative and qualitative thinking comes with their strengths and benefits, it does bear its limitations that may hinder the further development of ideas. This is also made evident by how these two methods are laid out as opposite approaches.

When using quantitative thinking, we generalize our findings depending on the results of a sample that represents a demographic or a population. This approach, however, does not explain complexities that create nuances in a situation. Also, it does not consider the context that can further explain phenomena or circumstances.

On the other hand, qualitative thinking ventures on causality and doesn’t provide for standard cookie-cutter results. This makes the process more time-consuming and difficult to analyze, especially when results taken from the participants start to fluctuate and conflict with each other.

Sticking to one method can stifle the progress of the research, which is why innovative approaches allow for a better understanding of the study at hand. Consequently, this leads us to alternative methods.

Analytical Potential of Comparative Thinking

Simply put, comparative thinking is the process of examining two or more contrasting items to better evaluate the data in the study. This method often incorporates several disciplines into a single analysis. In this case, research can employ both quantitative and qualitative methods. 

Afterward, the results are placed side by side for further analysis. While it is generally flexible, it doesn’t guarantee a seamless research result.

Comparative thinking involves showing what idea statistical data represents, then supporting it or assessing it with the context or circumstantial information. This is also called the secondary analysis of statistical or quantitative data. 

The extent of the result differences may then warrant a new approach or can lead to a new hypothesis. This is generally used in analyzing government, market dynamics, history, and social studies.

The Alternative Q Method

Another alternative thinking method we can employ was introduced in a paper written by Dr. Branka Krivokapic – Skoko for the School of Business at Charles Sturt University. In this paper, she discusses the Q methodology. This entails the evaluation and comparison of subjective factors. 

This is a term coined to represent an approach that hybridized both quantitative and qualitative methods. It was also called “qualiquantology” by researchers Paul Stenner and Stainton Rogers in 2004 and is generally considered a successful combination of the two.

This is done through interpreting quantitative data to identify patterns and other recurring factors. This may contradict or reinforce the results produced through qualitative research. For example, a survey can be conducted to check which demographic responded positively to the study. Qualitative measures like interviews and forums can then be conducted to a more focused group. 

With this approach, the process is narrowed down and simplified, while conserving resources and producing more substantial data. This is also designed to allow the researchers to reap the benefits of both a generalized result and a comprehensive analysis. Ultimately, the Q method works as an effective blend of statistical, interpretive, and analytical.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a hybrid of established research methods allows for a richer development of data, leading to a more open and inclusive result. While the quantitative and qualitative methods of thinking may prove effective to particular fields of study, the comparative and the Q methods offer more insight and consideration on factors that may affect the study.  

This can also be an effective approach to life, given that we cannot fully rely on either full objectivity or subjectivity when making our decisions. Going beyond qualitative and quantitative thinking can break us free from the limitations of a standardized approach. We hope that this article serves as a guide as to how these innovative thinking approaches can further improve your research.