Quantitative and qualitative approaches to research

Why we distinguish between qualitative and quantitative research?

Is this distinction important...?

One thing is evident. Quantitative researchers use numerical values objectively derived from measurements. All their findings depend upon the association of the measurement of an attribute with another. Qualitative researchers also measure, but not using numerical values. Their measurement, or assessment, is about the subjective experiences of individuals. 

Quantitative and qualitative approaches to research differ in their epistemological foundations. In Bryman's opinion, a quantitative approach is a research strategy that entails a deductive approach to the relationship between theory and research. Quantitative research stresses the testing of theories and incorporates the practices and norms of the natural scientific model and positivism. It considers social reality as external and objective. A qualitative approach is another research strategy that emphasizes an inductive approach to the relationship between theory and research. The prime focus is to generate the theories. The approach considers social realities as constructions by individuals. It is incorporated with interpretivistic epistemology.

However, we cannot conclude with these comments. Some researchers argue about the meaninglessness in discriminating one approach to research from another. These approaches help us to study knowledge. Hence they can be considered complementary. We can adopt a quantitative approach to enquire about the generalizable facts. On the other side, there is a qualitative approach to study specific experiences. Likewise, if we have a theory and want to test if it is right, we can use a quantitative approach. If we're going to understand thought, or a concept, or an experience, we can use a qualitative approach.

Now, what do you think? Is the distinction important...?