Quantitative And Qualitative Research Methods: Some Strengths And Weaknesses

Abstract

Educational research has made extensive contributions to educational policies, principles of teaching and learning, curricula, classroom instruction, etc. Several methods were used. It can be broadly classified as quantitative and qualitative. Both methods aim to collect data to achieve the research objective. The two methods are not mutually exclusive. They can be used independently or collaboratively. This article discusses both categories of research methods, namely quantitative and qualitative, their historical background, some examples of each method, and their relative strengths and weaknesses. Finally, triangulation methods are suggested. It concludes by looking at how these methods can be used effectively to give a complete picture of the issues raised in education.