Why A Researcher Might Use Qualitative Research

An assessment of various research methodologies, assessing why a researcher might use these research methodologies and why a researcher might not use the research methodologies. Including whether research methodologies is influenced by ethical principles, validity and reliability is included.

There are two main types of sampling which a researcher could use for their research project: random sampling and snowball sampling. A random sample is where the research questionnaire, interview etc. is handed and completed by any individual. A researcher might use random sampling in order to collect data from all different groups, no matter what the their identity (gender, age, sexuality, lifestyle etc.) meaning that they could gain a variety of data.
Quantitative research is the use of closed questions and questions which provide numerical answers. A researcher might use quantitative research as it is quick and easy to analyse; providing an overview of the participants opinion. The data provided would be easier to analyse and determine the most popular opinion. A researcher might not use quantitative research as the data provided does not always provide a full representation of the participants opinion, only an overview, which is often not enough to answer the research project. Qualitative research is the use of open questions, allowing participants to answer with their opinions and thoughts. A researcher might use qualitative research as it provides more detailed answers which could represent a wider opinion of participants. Extra information is provided than that from quantitative research. This could mean that the information is more reliable and valid however, a researcher might not use qualitative research as the analysing of the data provided would be more time consuming as the answers need to be explored for
A structured interview is where the researcher asks a participant pre-prepared questions and only these questions. A researcher might use structured interviews in their research project as it provides an increased overview of the topic. The overview of answers could be used in order to determine which questions will be asked in a follow on interview or a questionnaire. A researcher might not use structured interviews as the researcher is unable to stray away from the questions, meaning that they cannot go into depth into a participants answer. An unstructured interview is where the researcher can ask any questions relating to the topic they would like, a small plan is often drawn up previously, but questions are often thought of during the interview. A researcher might use unstructured interviews as a research method as it allows the researcher to ask more questions relating to a previous answer, developing upon the answer. This could mean that the results have more validity. A researcher might not use unstructured interviews as a research method as they might only have enough time to explore one question in depth whereas, in a structured interview many questions can be answered and an overview can be