Inquiry is driven by philosophical assumptions.
Within research, these assumptions can be
divided into two main paradigms: quantitative
and qualitative.
Their differences stem from contrasting ontological
beliefs, which have been explored in previous
videos.
These beliefs determine the most appropriate
epistemology and therefore methodology for
nursing research.
While quantitative and qualitative methodologies
are often used alone, please note that triangulation
is also used to combine the two.
Quantitative inquiry is founded on a realist
ontology.
Thus, the researcher maintains an etic perspective
through objectivity and distance from subjects.
They allow nature to answer the research questions
and discover 'truth' using experiments.
Methodologies are typically experimental in
nature and involve measurable tests and questionnaires.
A randomised control trial is the "gold standard"
within quantitative research.
It is used for proving cause and effect relationships
among variables under study.
Quazi-experimental and descriptive methods
are also used.
The aim of quantitative research is to develop
explanations for phenomena.
Results are considered factual and universally
applicable.
They can be generalised because they are considered
context-free.
While most research is still based in this
paradigm, a shift towards qualitative inquiry
can be seen in some areas of nursing.
Qualitative inquiry is based on relativist
ontology.
Hence, the researcher is more interactive
with participants as an emic or insider's
view of phenomena is desired.
Findings are considered co-created.
In this dichotomous view of the paradigms,
three dominant qualitative methodologies include
phenomenology, ethnography and grounded theory.
However, you will see a number of other qualitative
methodologies in the literature.
In these methodologies data are collected
through interactive methods like in-depth
interviews and perspectives of participants
are analysed.
Qualitative researchers are not searching
for objective 'truth' as in the quantitative
paradigm.
Instead, researchers search for, reconstruct
and interpret subjective meaning.
They believe that results are contextual.
Thus, qualitative research is also called
constructed, interpretive or natural inquiry.
When comparing quantitative and qualitative
paradigms it is evident that they are opposites.
The philosophy, approach to data collection
and purpose of quantitative and qualitative
research is completely different.
However, they can be used together.
Triangulation is another approach that utilises
both quantitative and qualitative methods
to answer research questions.
This triangulation assumes that the researcher
does not view one method as superior to the
other.
Results are considered complete and contextual.
Although there are many challenges to utilizing
triangulation results are arguably more comprehensive.
Both quantitative and qualitative methodologies
are equally vital to nursing inquiry.
When used together they may provide a clearer
picture of phenomena.
Remember that in nursing both methods are
considered empirical.
Methods selected for any research study should
be guided by the research question.
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