Question

The theoretical foundations of qualitative and quantitative methods are very different, but many researchers believe both methods should be used in the research study to increase validity and reliability. What advantages or disadvantages do you see in using both types of methods in a nursing study? Support your answer with current evidence-based literature. please provide in text citations and references.

Answer 1

The systematic process of finding out new knowledge or refining or validating of existing knowledge is termed as research.1 The type of research is broadly classified as qualitative and quantitative. They can be used alone or as mixed method in a research. Botha approaches have its own strengths and weaknesses. There is no ideal solution for a research problem, but the researcher has to go for a series of compromises. 2 The type of research is determined by the objectives of the study, research question, samples, expected outcome etc. 3

Nursing profession utilizes research mainly to support the evidence-based practices(EBP) which are aimed at providing quality nursing care to patients. Nursing researchers use both the methods as needed. The two methodologies result in different type of outcome or knowledge. Quantitative research results in more objective knowledge and the qualitative research result in the development of theories.

Quantitative data can be close-ended information collected using methods like rating scales, observation checklists, and performance instruments. The data analysis is done using statistical methods.

Qualitative data uses open-ended information collected by the researcher using interviews, focus groups and observations. The data analysis is done by categorizing the information and its presentation as paragraphs.

Both the methods can be used together to minimize the weaknesses of each type and strengthen the validity and reliability. 5   

Advantages of quantitative research

• comparison and replication of data are allowed
• observer independence
• use of the objective method of measurement
• Objectivity of reliability and validity.
• measuring descriptive aspects of the study.
• Formulation of hypothesis for subsequent verification
• Facilitate statistical analysis

Disadvantages of quantitative research

Limited resources

Pragmatic origin

Lack of explanation

Rigid representation

Advantages of qualitative research

Explaining the unique experiences

Flexibility to change methods using the course of study

Reflection of researchers perspective

Real life description of the phenomenon

Disadvantages of qualitative research

The uncertainty of collecting subjective data

Lack of logical reasoning and statistical methods

Influence of the researcher on an outcome, a chance of manipulation

Emotional involvement

The mixed method studies will improve the validity and reliability by predicting real-world behaviour which is the essential part of the development of EBP and the nursing profession.8

REFERENCES:

1. Susan K. Grove, Jennifer R. Gray, Nancy Burns, Understanding Nursing Research, 6th Edition, 2015

2. McGrath, JOSEPH E., Dilemmatic: "The Study of Research Choices and Dilemmas", American Behavioral Scientist, 25:2 (1981: Nov./Dec.) p.179

3. https://cirt.gcu.edu/research/developmentresources/research_ready/quantresearch/

4. Grove et al. The barriers and facilitators to the implementation of clinical guidance in elective orthopaedic surgery: a qualitative

study protocol Implementation Science (2015) 10:81DOI 10.1186/s 13012-015-0273-6

5. http://resourcecentre.foodrisc.org/mixed-methods-research_185.html

6. Md Shidur Rahman, The Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches and Methods in Language “Testing and Assessment” Research: A Literature Review, November 2016DOI: 10.5539/jel.v6n1p102

7. Palmer, Judy Akin PhD, RN, CPSN, PHN, Nursing Research: Understanding the Basics

Plastic Surgical Nursing: April-June 2009 - Volume 29 - Issue 2 - p 115–121, doi: 10.1097/01.PSN.0000356871.10597.db

8. Wienclaw, Ruth A, Quantitative & Qualitative Analysis, Research Starters Social;4/1/2018, p1