Describe qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods, and action research. Give an example for each.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

• Definitions for qualitative research: interested in studying things in their natural environments with a focus on exploring and understanding how people make sense and experience the world in which they live.
o Example of this research, such as interviewing teachers to understand their experiences with a professional development program
• Definitions for quantitative research: use numerical data to identify, understand, and assess the strength of relationships between the data points and to make inferences about relationships between data points
o Example of this research, such as an experimental study assessing the impact of a new instructional technique on student learning
• Definitions for mixed methods: use both qualitative and quantitative research methods to make sense of a research question and/or problem.
o Example of this research: interviewing students as well as gathering their SAT/ACT scores to understand how a college preparation seminar influences students’ college readiness
• Definitions for action research: seeks to use the systematic process of research to improve practices and/or process. Action researchers often use qualitative and/or quantitative research strategies, while including an intentional focus on a current problem of practice. Action research is particularly useful for practitioner-scholars.
o Example of this research: an assistant principal gathering discipline data as well as interviewing teachers at her school to help develop a program to decrease suspensions