Integrating qualitative and quantitative research methods.
Researchers have traditionally worked within either a quantitative or a qualitative paradigm. The quantitative paradigm is dominant in biomedical research. This paper describes the differences between quantitative and qualitative methods and discusses the limitations of research which involves one approach to the exclusion of the other. The possible advantages of the combined use of both types of methods are outlined and highlighted with examples from the medical literature.
Stange
K C
KC
Department of Family Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106.
Zyzanski
S J
SJ
D015982:Bias; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012107:Research Design