Quantitative vs qualitative data

• Quantitative data


  Numerical with clear, measurable, objective results
• qualitative data


  Interviews, experiences, words, images, sounds, observations

  ALL SUBJECTIVE
• Quantitive data pros

  • Can make comparisons between sets of data
  • easier to see trends
  • Objective
  • Faster
  • Reliable
• Qualitative data pros

  • More information given
  • More valid data
  • Holistic (clearer understanding/meaning of ideas and answers)
• quantitative data cons

  • Limited amount of information given from data
  • Reductionist
• Qualitative data cons

  • Subjective
  • Irrelevant data
  • Takes a long time
  • Hard to compare
  • Problem of adequate validity and reliability
  • Hard to replicate