What distinguishes qualitative research from quantitative research?

Qualitative research is distinguished by its focus on understanding concepts, experiences, and meanings from the perspective of participants. This type of research often seeks to explore complex phenomena by gathering rich, detailed information through methods such as interviews, focus groups, or observations. It allows researchers to delve deeply into the nuances of human behavior, motivations, and social contexts, which are not typically quantifiable or easily measured.

In contrast, quantitative research primarily involves the collection and analysis of numerical data to find patterns, relationships, and statistical significance. It often employs structured methods such as surveys with closed-ended questions or experiments to generate measurable outcomes. This distinction highlights the inherent differences in aims and methodologies, making qualitative research particularly valuable for exploring subjective experiences and providing contextual insights that quantitative data alone may not fully capture.