Research Approaches in Education: A Comparison of

Quantitative, Qualitative and Mixed Methods

Joseph Dave Pregoner

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Joseph Dave Pregoner. Research Approaches in Education: A Comparison of Quantitative, Qualitative
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IMCC Journal of Science 31-36
Volume 4, Issue 2, December 2024 https://myjournal.imcc.edu.ph/

Research Approaches in Education: A Comparison of

Quantitative, Qualitative and Mixed Methods
Joseph Dave Pregoner

Graduate School of Business Management, Philippine Christian University, Manila, Philippines

* Correspondence: [email protected]

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

Type: Review Article

Received: 27 March 2023; Revised: 11 February 2024; Accepted for publication: 10 July 2024; Published online: 22 July 2024

1. Research Approaches specific educational issues, develop evidence-based interventions,

and contribute to the broader field of education research.
Research approaches in education are systematic strategies used
to investigate educational phenomena, assess teaching methods, 2. Importance of Using Appropriate Research Approaches
and improve learning outcomes [1]. These approaches guide
educators and researchers in exploring various aspects of Using appropriate research approaches in education is crucial for
education, from classroom practices to policy development, several reasons. Firstly, selecting the right approach ensures that
ensuring that the research is comprehensive and reliable [2]. They the research effectively addresses the specific questions or
provide a framework that helps in structuring the research process, problems being investigated. Different educational issues may
from formulating research questions to analyzing and interpreting require distinct methodologies to uncover relevant insights,
data, ultimately contributing to the advancement of educational whether they involve quantitative data to measure educational
theory and practice [3]. outcomes or qualitative data to explore teaching practices [6]. By
aligning the research approach with the research objectives,
A key aspect of research approaches in education is the educators and researchers can produce findings that are both valid
alignment with educational theories and philosophies. These and applicable.
approaches consider the diverse contexts within which education
occurs, such as cultural, social, and institutional environments [4]. Secondly, appropriate research approaches contribute to the
By grounding research in established theories, educators can credibility and reliability of the research. A well-chosen approach
explore how different teaching strategies affect student learning, provides a structured framework for data collection and analysis,
how educational policies impact schools, and how various factors reducing the risk of biases and errors. This methodological rigor
influence educational outcomes. This theoretical grounding ensures ensures that the findings are trustworthy and can be replicated or
that the research is not only systematic but also relevant and validated by others [7]. In educational research, where the stakes
applicable to real-world educational settings [5]. can be high for policy-making and instructional practices,
maintaining high standards of reliability and validity is essential for
The selection of a research approach in education also generating useful and actionable insights.
determines the types of data collected and the methods used for
analysis. Educational research can involve a range of data sources, Lastly, using suitable research approaches helps in effectively
including student assessments, classroom observations, teacher communicating and applying research findings. When the approach
interviews, and educational records. Depending on the research aligns with the research questions, it enhances the clarity and
approach, data can be analyzed quantitatively or qualitatively to relevance of the results. This, in turn, facilitates the dissemination
provide insights into educational practices and outcomes. By of findings to stakeholders such as educators, policymakers, and the
employing a well-defined research approach, educators can address academic community [8]. Well-structured research provides a solid
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foundation for evidence-based decision-making and practical contexts within which they occur, allowing researchers to explore
improvements in educational settings, ultimately contributing to the the underlying meanings and dynamics of the subject matter. This
advancement of educational practices and outcomes [9]. approach is inherently flexible, adapting to new insights and
emerging findings throughout the research process [18]. However,
3. Qualitative Research qualitative research also has its limitations. The results are often
specific to the studied context and may not be generalizable to
Qualitative research is a methodological approach that focuses larger populations [19]. Additionally, the analysis and interpretation
on understanding phenomena through the collection and analysis of of qualitative data can be influenced by researcher bias and personal
non-numerical data [10]. Unlike quantitative research, which relies perspectives, introducing subjectivity into the findings [20].
on numerical data and statistical analysis, qualitative research seeks Furthermore, qualitative research can be time-consuming and
to explore and interpret the underlying meanings, experiences, and labour-intensive, with the process of data collection and analysis
contexts of participants. This approach is particularly valuable for requiring significant effort. The complexity of managing and coding
gaining deep insights into complex social, cultural, and educational detailed data also poses challenges, as thematic analysis can be
issues [11]. Table 1 shows the common research designs employed intricate and demanding [21].
in qualitative research.
At its core, qualitative research involves gathering rich, detailed 4. Quantitative Research
data through methods such as interviews, focus groups,
Quantitative research is a systematic investigation that primarily
observations, and content analysis. These methods allow
focuses on quantifying relationships, behaviours, phenomena, or
researchers to explore participants' perspectives, emotions, and
patterns through statistical and numerical data. This approach
experiences in their natural settings [12]. Data is often collected
involves the collection and analysis of measurable data to identify
through open-ended questions, unstructured or semi-structured
trends, test hypotheses, and make generalizations. By utilizing
interviews, and direct observation, enabling a comprehensive
statistical tools and techniques, quantitative research aims to
understanding of the subject matter from the participants' point of
provide objective, replicable, and generalizable findings that
view [13]. Table 1 shows the
contribute to broader knowledge in a given field [34]. The common
One of the key strengths of qualitative research is its ability to research designs employed in quantitative research are given in
provide contextually rich and nuanced insights. It helps researchers Table 2.
understand the complexity of human behaviour and social
The core of quantitative research lies in its emphasis on
interactions by focusing on the subjective experiences of
numerical data and statistical analysis. Researchers collect data
individuals. This approach is valuable for exploring how people
through structured methods such as surveys, experiments, and
make sense of their world, how they interact with their
secondary data analysis. These methods ensure that the data is
environment, and how they interpret their experiences. By
consistent, reliable, and can be analyzed using statistical techniques.
capturing these dimensions, qualitative research can uncover
The use of standardized instruments and procedures allows
patterns and themes that might not be apparent through
researchers to control variables, reduce biases, and ensure that the
quantitative methods [14].
findings are based on empirical evidence [35].
Qualitative research is often exploratory and inductive, meaning
One of the primary strengths of quantitative research is its ability
that researchers develop theories and insights based on the data
to generalize findings to larger populations. By employing
collected rather than testing pre-existing hypotheses. This approach
techniques such as random sampling and large sample sizes,
allows for flexibility and adaptability throughout the research
researchers can draw conclusions that extend beyond the specific
process, as researchers can modify their methods and focus based
sample studied. This generalizability is crucial for making informed
on emerging findings. The iterative process of data collection and
decisions and developing theories that apply to various contexts.
analysis enables researchers to refine their understanding and
Quantitative research is often used in educational settings to assess
develop a deeper conceptual framework grounded in the
the effectiveness of interventions, measure student performance,
participants' lived experiences [15].
and evaluate educational policies [36].
Qualitative research is important in the education discipline
Quantitative research is also characterized by its deductive
because it delves into the nuanced, subjective experiences of
approach. Researchers start with a hypothesis or research question
students, teachers, and administrators, offering insights that
derived from existing theories or literature and then design the
quantitative methods might miss. It helps to understand the
study to test this hypothesis. The focus on hypothesis testing and
complexities of classroom interactions, teaching methods, and
statistical analysis helps to validate or refute theoretical predictions.
educational environments from the perspectives of those directly
This structured approach enables researchers to build upon
involved [16]. By capturing detailed descriptions of educational
previous knowledge and contribute to the development of
practices and personal experiences, qualitative research informs the
theoretical frameworks in their field [37].
development of more effective, context-sensitive interventions and
policies, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes and Quantitative research is essential in the education discipline
practices that are better aligned with the needs and realities of the because it provides objective, measurable evidence that can be used
educational community [17]. to assess the effectiveness of educational interventions, policies,
and practices [38]. By employing statistical methods to analyze
Qualitative research provides a deep, nuanced understanding of
numerical data, quantitative research can identify trends, measure
participants' experiences, motivations, and contexts, offering
outcomes, and determine correlations between variables such as
valuable insights into complex social phenomena [14]. Its strength
teaching methods and student performance. This approach enables
lies in capturing the richness of individual experiences and the
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Table 1: Research designs in qualitative research.

Research Designs Definition
A case study involves an in-depth exploration of a single case or a small number of cases within their real-life
context [22]. This design is useful for examining unique, complex issues or phenomena in detail. It allows
Case Study
researchers to gather comprehensive data through multiple sources such as interviews, observations, and
documents, providing a holistic view of the case [23].
Phenomenology aims to understand and describe the lived experiences of individuals regarding a particular
phenomenon [24]. Researchers use in-depth interviews and other methods to explore how participants perceive
Phenomenology
and make sense of their experiences. The goal is to uncover the essence of these experiences and the meanings
attached to them [25].
Grounded theory focuses on generating or developing a theory that is grounded in the data collected [26].
Researchers collect data through methods like interviews and observations and analyze it inductively to identify
Grounded Theory
patterns and themes. The goal is to build theories that emerge from the data rather than testing existing theories
[27].
Ethnography involves the in-depth study of people and cultures in their natural environment [28]. Researchers
immerse themselves in the setting to observe and interact with participants, often over extended periods. This
Ethnography design provides rich, detailed descriptions of the social practices and cultural norms of a group [29].
Ethnographic research is particularly useful for understanding cultural phenomena and social interactions from
the participants’ perspective, offering insights into how individuals and groups make sense of their world [30].
Narrative inquiry focuses on the stories and personal narratives of individuals to understand their experiences
and identities [31]. Researchers collect stories through interviews or written accounts and analyze how these
Narrative Inquiry narratives reflect broader themes and personal meanings [32]. This approach emphasizes the importance of
storytelling in capturing the complexity of human experience and provides a means of exploring how individuals
construct and interpret their life stories [33].

Table 2: Research designs in quantitative research.

Research Designs Definition
Experimental design involves manipulating one or more independent variables to observe their effect on
dependent variables. This design is characterized by random assignment of participants to different groups (e.g.,
treatment and control groups) and the use of controlled conditions to establish cause-and-effect relationships
[43]. Common types of experimental designs include:
Experimental Design
Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs): Participants are randomly assigned to experimental and control groups,
and the effects of an intervention are measured [44].
Factorial Designs: Multiple independent variables are manipulated simultaneously to examine their individual
and interactive effects on dependent variables [45].
Quasi-experimental designs are similar to experimental designs but lack random assignment. They are used
when randomization is not feasible. This design allows researchers to study the effects of interventions or
Quasi-Experimental
treatments in real-world settings while controlling for confounding variables [46]. Common types include:
Design
Nonequivalent Control Group Design: Compares outcomes between a group that receives an intervention and
a non-randomized control group [47].
Pretest-Posttest Design: Measures variables before and after an intervention to assess changes over time [48].
Descriptive research designs aim to describe characteristics of a population or phenomenon. They do not
involve manipulation of variables but focus on providing a snapshot of the current state of affairs [49]. Common
Descriptive Design
types include:
Survey Research: Uses structured questionnaires or surveys to collect data on participants' attitudes, beliefs, or
behaviors. It provides a broad overview of the population [50].
Correlational research examines the relationships between two or more variables to determine if they are
associated or correlated. This design does not imply causation but identifies patterns and strengths of
Correlational Design associations [51]. Common types include:
Cross-Sectional Studies: Collects data at a single point in time to examine relationships between variables [52].
Longitudinal Studies: Collects data from the same subjects over multiple time points to assess changes and
trends over time [53].
Comparative research designs focus on comparing two or more groups or conditions to identify differences or
similarities. This design helps to assess the impact of different variables or interventions [54]. Common types
include:
Comparative Design
Between-Subjects Design: Compares outcomes between different groups of participants exposed to different
conditions [55].
Within-Subjects Design: Examines the same participants under different conditions to assess changes in
outcomes [56].

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educators and policymakers to make data-driven decisions, evaluate impact of educational interventions, qualitative data can explore the
the impact of educational programs, and ensure that resources are reasons behind these trends and provide deeper insights into
allocated effectively [39]. Quantitative research thus supports the participants' experiences and perspectives. This dual approach
development of evidence-based practices that can be generalized allows educators and researchers to address multifaceted
across larger populations, contributing to a more systematic and questions, validate findings through triangulation, and develop more
rigorous understanding of educational phenomena [40]. nuanced and effective educational strategies and policies that are
grounded in both statistical evidence and real-world context [60].
Quantitative research excels in providing objective, numerical
data that can be statistically analyzed to identify patterns and Mixed methods research offers a comprehensive view by
trends, offering precise measurements and comparisons through integrating both qualitative and quantitative data, providing a fuller
standardized tools and procedures. This approach allows for and more nuanced understanding of the research problem. This
generalizability of results to larger populations if the sample is approach enhances the credibility and reliability of results through
representative, and typically involves straightforward and efficient triangulation, combining detailed contextual insights with broad,
data collection and analysis processes. However, it may overlook generalizable data [61]. The flexibility of mixed methods allows
the context and underlying reasons behind observed trends or researchers to address complex research questions from multiple
relationships, providing limited depth in understanding individual perspectives. However, mixed methods research can be complex to
experiences and complex social phenomena [41]. Additionally, design and implement, requiring expertise in both qualitative and
quantitative research can be inflexible, with less adaptability to quantitative techniques. It is often resource-intensive, demanding
changes or emerging insights during the research process. The focus more time, effort, and resources to collect and analyze diverse types
on numerical data may also lead to oversimplification, potentially of data [62]. Additionally, integrating qualitative and quantitative
reducing complex issues to mere statistics and missing the nuanced data can pose challenges, including difficulties in reconciling
aspects of the research topic [42]. conflicting findings. Managing and analyzing large volumes of data
also requires advanced data management skills, which can be
5. Mixed Methods Research overwhelming [63].
Mixed methods research integrates both qualitative and
6. Conclusion
quantitative approaches to offer a more comprehensive
understanding of a research problem. By combining numerical data The diverse research approaches in education—qualitative,
with detailed contextual information, this approach leverages the quantitative, and mixed methods—each offer unique strengths and
strengths of both methodologies, providing a richer and more address specific research needs. Qualitative research excels in
nuanced view than either method could achieve on its own. This providing deep, contextual insights into participants' experiences
integration allows researchers to explore a research question from and perspectives, enabling a comprehensive understanding of
multiple perspectives, enhancing the depth and breadth of their complex educational phenomena. It captures the richness of
findings [57]. Mixed methods research often use several designs individual experiences, though it may face limitations in
and these are shown in Table 3. generalizability and susceptibility to researcher bias.
In mixed methods research, data is collected and analyzed Quantitative research, by contrast, emphasizes objective
through both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Quantitative measurement and statistical analysis, providing broad, generalizable
data typically involves numerical measurements and statistical findings that are critical for assessing educational interventions and
analysis, providing broad, generalizable insights. Qualitative data, on policies. While it offers precision and efficiency, it may sometimes
the other hand, is collected through methods such as interviews, oversimplify complex issues and lack contextual depth.
observations, and content analysis, offering detailed, context-rich
Mixed methods research bridges the gap between these two
information about participants' experiences and perspectives. By
approaches, integrating qualitative and quantitative data to provide
combining these types of data, researchers can uncover patterns
a comprehensive, multidimensional understanding of educational
and relationships that might not be visible through a single-method
issues. This approach enhances the validity of findings through
approach [58].
triangulation and allows researchers to address multifaceted
The integration of qualitative and quantitative data helps to questions. However, mixed methods research can be resource-
address complex research questions more effectively. For instance, intensive and complex to implement, requiring proficiency in both
quantitative data can identify trends and correlations, while methodologies.
qualitative data can explore the underlying reasons and meanings
Selecting the appropriate research approach is crucial for
behind those trends. This combined approach enables researchers
effectively addressing specific educational research questions. By
to understand not only "what" is occurring but also "why" it is
aligning the research design with the study's objectives, researchers
happening, providing a fuller picture of the research topic [59].
can ensure methodological rigor, enhance the reliability of their
Mixed methods research is vital in the education discipline findings, and produce actionable insights. Ultimately, the choice of
because it combines the strengths of both qualitative and research approach should be guided by the nature of the research
quantitative approaches, providing a more comprehensive analysis problem, the type of data needed, and the goals of the study,
of educational issues. By integrating numerical data with detailed ensuring that the research contributes meaningfully to educational
contextual insights, mixed methods research offers a fuller theory and practice.
understanding of complex educational phenomena. For example,
while quantitative data can reveal broad trends and measure the

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Table 3: Research designs in mixed methods research.

Research Designs Definition
In a convergent design, qualitative and quantitative data are collected simultaneously but analyzed separately.
After analysis, the results are compared and integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the
Convergent Design
research problem. This design allows researchers to validate findings across both methods and provides a more
complete view by corroborating results [64].
This design involves collecting and analyzing quantitative data first, followed by qualitative data. The purpose
of the qualitative phase is to explain or elaborate on the quantitative findings. For example, a researcher might
Explanatory
use a survey to identify trends and then conduct interviews to explore participants' experiences and
Sequential Design
interpretations behind those trends. This approach helps to provide deeper insights into the quantitative results
[65].
In an exploratory sequential design, qualitative data is collected and analyzed first, followed by quantitative
Exploratory data. The initial qualitative phase helps to develop theories, hypotheses, or instruments that are then tested in
Sequential Design the quantitative phase. For instance, qualitative interviews might be used to develop a survey instrument, which
is then used in a larger quantitative study to test hypotheses derived from the initial qualitative findings [66].
An embedded design involves integrating qualitative and quantitative methods within a single phase of the
research. For instance, a predominantly quantitative study might include qualitative components (e.g., open-
Embedded Design ended survey questions or interviews) to provide additional context and depth. This design allows for the
incorporation of qualitative data into a primarily quantitative framework, enhancing the understanding of
specific aspects of the research [67].

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