Alda Aisyah Lestari/Mahasiswa PTK UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung
The phenomenon in educational research practice shows that the success of research is greatly influenced by the paradigm, axioms, and technical tools used. Research is not enough with just ideas, but must be supported by a strong philosophical and methodological foundation so that the results are valid and useful as a basis for the development of science and educational policy. Therefore, this study focuses on four main pillars of quantitative and qualitative research.
First, the basic concepts in quantitative and qualitative research. Quantitative research is based on a positivistic paradigm that views reality as objective, singular, and measurable. Data is obtained using standard instruments and then analyzed statistically to find patterns of cause and effect. Conversely, qualitative research is based on a constructivist paradigm, which views reality as plural and full of meaning. Researchers become the main instruments using techniques such as interviews, observation, and document analysis.
Second, research axioms. Axioms are understood as basic assumptions of research. In quantitative research, axioms emphasize objectivity, neutrality, and the distance between the researcher and the object. In qualitative research, axioms emphasize values, meanings, and the involvement of researchers in the social phenomena being studied.
Third, problems, concepts, and constructs. Research problems are the starting point that drives researchers to seek scientific answers. Concepts function as theoretical ideas that are then operationalized into indicators. Constructs bridge theory with empirical data, so that research instruments can be designed clearly and purposefully.
Fourth, phenomena, data, and variables. Phenomena are events observed in real life. Data is a representation of these phenomena that is processed in the form of variables. Variables in quantitative research can be independent, dependent, moderating, or controlling, and the relationship between variables is the main focus for explaining cause-and-effect relationships.
Thus, these four pillars provide a clear framework for understanding both quantitative and qualitative research. Quantitative research emphasizes objectivity and numbers, while qualitative research emphasizes meaning and interpretation. Both complement each other in enriching educational research to make it relevant to the needs of the times.
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*) This text is presented from the Teaching Module of the Research Methodology Course in Islamic Educational Management Part 5: Paradigms, Axioms, and Specific Concepts in Quantitative and Qualitative Research. Lecturer: Prof. Dr. H. A. Rusdiana., M.M. (https://digilib.uinsgd.ac.id/id/eprint/121673)
( Curiculum Vitae Sumber: Dokumen Pribadi)