By Dr Lonny Ness
I was reminded today that some doctoral students automatically classify the collection of numbers as reflective of quantitative research. However, numbers-alone may be suitable for either qualitative or quantitative research. Why? This is true based on the use of the numbers collected. Let’s examine further…
In the example given today, the student stated that numbers, such as those responding to questions such as “how many'' are quantitative. While this is partially correct, in that, quantitative research deals with statistics, which are numbers-based, it is not entirely correct that the numerical data collected could only be used for quantitative research. Examining further, there is a classification of numerical data known as descriptive statistics, which generally deal with frequency, central tendency (mean, median, and mode), dispersion, and position (Compuslab, n.d.). Descriptive statistic, as such, “describe” the population from which data was collected, which is often applied for both qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research, but should not be confused with quantitative data analysis, which deals with correlations, relationships, and differences among predictor (independent) and outcome/criterion (dependent) variables. To be clear, descriptive statistics may be used (although weaker) for quantitative data analysis, but is not used exclusively for this purpose.
Descriptive data used for quantitative analysis is known as descriptive quantitative research approach (Quora, 2019) and should be distinguished from correlational, quasi-experimental (or causal-comparative), and experimental. Descriptive data used for qualitative research simply describes the population or may be used as evidence of a phenomenon being explored for open-ended inquiry (whereas quantitative is closed-ended). For mixed method research, the same applies, but potentially for both qualitative and quantitative purposes.
DISCLAIMER: Dr. Lonny is not a statistician. All opinions expressed are based on learning and experience via doctoral research, mentoring, and coaching. We do HAVE statisticians on board!
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Compuslab (n.d.) Types of descriptive data. Retreived from https://baselinesupport.campuslabs.com/hc/en-us/articles/204305665-Types-of-Descriptive-Statistics
Quora (2019). What are the kinds of quantitative research? Retrieved from https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-kinds-of-quantitative-research
Dr. Lonny Ness, originally from Los Angeles and now residing in Nashville, TN, is a seasoned professional with a rich background in business administration and IT management. Following a successful 27-year corporate career, he transitioned to academia in 2007. His academic journey includes earning an MBA and a PhD in Business Administration, with the latter obtained from Northcentral University (NCU) in 2005. Dr. Lonny has served in various roles in the academic world, including as an online adjunct professor, lead school dissertation reviewer, and doctoral program curriculum developer.
In addition to his extensive corporate and academic experience, Dr. Lonny has providing guidance and support for doctoral students. He has chaired and served on dissertation committees for over 85 graduates, and his dedication to teaching has earned him the title of Instructor of the Year. Dr. Lonny continues to explore entrepreneurial opportunities and research activities, eagerly embracing the transformative power of change and new possibilities.