Strategies

http://www.scribd.com/doc/18243120/Qualitative-and-Quantitative-Method-of-Research

Choice of research strategy From the discussion under schools of thought, it is apparent that both qualitative and quantitative methods involve differing strengths and weaknesses. McGrath (1982) in his study of research choices makes it clear that there are no ideal solutions, only a series of compromises. Patton (1990) expresses the same view: ``research, like diplomacy, is the art of the possible''. This quote by Patton is perhaps a very poignant guide to any researcher contemplating the most appropriate avenue of successfully completing a sizable piece of research study. According to Yin (1994), research strategy should be chosen as a function of the research situation. Each research strategy has its own specific approach to collect and analyse empirical data, and therefore each strategy has its own advantages and disadvantages. Although each strategy has its own characteristics, there are overlapping areas, which bring complexity to the process of strategy selection. In order to avoid gross misfits between the desired outcome and the chosen strategy, Yin (1994) stresses that the type of question posed; the control over actual behavioural elements; and the degree of focus on historical or contemporary events; are the conditions which should provide the grounds for strategy choice. Table VI depicts the outcome of the intersection between most common research strategies and the three conditions identified above. Galliers (1992) (cited in Remenyiet al., 1998) provides a list of approaches or tactics. Table VII summarises this list according to the general philosophical base underpinning the different research tactics. It is important to note that most research tactics listed in the table can be used, at least to some extent, as either positivistic (quantitative) or phenomenological (qualitative) devices.

Defining and justifying qualitative research

It is difficult to find an...