Quantitative v qualitative
The word ‘quantitative’ refers to objective measures of definable factual characteristics such as numbers and statistics that are capable of being analysed – that is, 'quantities'. Quantities are properties that can exist as a multitude or magnitude and can be given a numerical value or compared in terms of more, less or equal.
Quantitative research can be used deductively to test a theory that can be presented in one of two ways:
- A hypothetical statement such as ‘if x then y’.
- An educated ‘guess’.
The word ‘qualitative’ refers to more subjective descriptions, views and opinions - that is 'qualities'. Qualitative properties are typically observed and cannot be assigned a numerical value.
Qualitative research generally uses a smaller sample size than quantitative research, but the information obtained can be more personal and in-depth.
Broadly, the two categories of qualitative research are exploratory and attitudinal:
- Exploratory research is used primarily to gain a greater understanding of a particular subject. It is useful for diagnosing a situation, considering alternative ideas and discovering new ones that haven’t been previously considered. The most common method of exploratory research is interviewing, where the raw data will be the transcribed answers. Another common method is a questionnaire (usually with open-ended questions).
- Attitudinal research is used to evaluate the opinions or views of individuals in a way that is subjective. Examples are questions that ask the individual to express their level of agreement with a statement, or to rank preferences.
NB Guide for Effective Benefits Management in Major Projects, published by the Infrastructure and Projects Authority in October 2017, defines qualitative as: ‘Whereby something is better measured through its quality rather than a quantitative measure. Something which is subjective or difficult to verify but is useful in understanding experiences and attitudes.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold
Reflecting a commitment to employees and members.
Scratching beneath the surface; a guide to selection.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.
70+ experts appointed to public sector fire safety framework
The Fire Safety (FS2) Framework from LHC Procurement.
Project and programme management codes of practice
CIOB publications for built environment professionals.
The ECA Industry Awards 2024 now open !
Recognising the best in the electrotechnical industry.
Sustainable development concepts decade by decade.
The regenerative structural engineer
A call for design that will repair the natural world.
Buildings that mimic the restorative aspects found in nature.
CIAT publishes Principal Designer Competency Framework
For those considering applying for registration as a PD.
BSRIA Building Reg's guidance: The second staircase
An overview focusing on aspects which most affect the building services industry.
Design codes and pattern books
Harmonious proportions and golden sections.
Introducing or next Guest Editor Arun Baybars
Practising architect and design panel review member.
Quick summary by size, shape, test, material, use or bonding..