Understanding Paradigms,Axioms,And Special Concept In Quantitative and Qualitative Research

In research both quantitative and qualitative understanding paradigms, axioms, and key concepts is crucial. These elements form the foundation that distinguishes how researchers design, conduct, and interpret research results.

First, a paradigm is a framework of thinking or a perspective used by researchers to understand reality. In quantitative research, the paradigm tends to be positivistic, viewing reality as objective, fixed, and measurable in numerical form. Conversely, qualitative research is based on a constructivist paradigm, which believes that reality is relative, shaped by social interaction, and cannot be fully measured numerically.
Understanding the paradigm helps researchers choose the right method and research instruments. It also serves as a guide for setting research objectives, analytical approaches, and drawing conclusions.

Second, an axiom is a fundamental assumption underlying every type of research. In quantitative research, axioms emphasize certainty, cause-and-effect relationships, and objectivity. Data is considered valid when obtained through standardized measurements. In qualitative research, axioms emphasize subjectivity, meaning, and context. The validity of research is not determined by numbers but by the depth of meaning, data consistency, and the researcher’s engagement in the field. By understanding axioms, researchers can maintain consistency between their research objectives and chosen methods.

Third, Research Problems and Concepts: The research problem is the starting point and the main reason for conducting a study. In quantitative research, problems usually take the form of empirically testable questions. Meanwhile, in qualitative research, problems often arise from social phenomena that need to be understood in terms of meaning. Constructs are abstract concepts to be measured, such as “learning satisfaction” or “work motivation.” In quantitative research, constructs are translated into measurable indicators. In qualitative research, constructs are understood through participants’ interpretations and narratives.
Phenomena, Data, and Variables: Phenomena are observable realities. In quantitative research, phenomena are transformed into measurable variables such as age, income, or test scores. In qualitative research, phenomena are explained through narrative descriptions, stories, or participants’ experiences. Quantitative data take numerical forms, while qualitative data take the form of words, texts, or symbols.

Fourth, by understanding paradigms, axioms, and these special concepts, students or researchers can more accurately determine appropriate research methods. If the researcher aims to find relationships among variables, a quantitative approach is more suitable. However, if the goal is to explore meanings or gain a deep understanding of a phenomenon, a qualitative approach is more appropriate. This understanding also helps avoid methodological errors—such as using quantitative instruments for problems that should be studied qualitatively, or vice versa.

Paradigms, axioms, and the key concepts of quantitative and qualitative research are fundamental elements in the world of research. Quantitative research focuses on numbers, objectivity, and measurement, while qualitative research emphasizes meaning, subjectivity, and context. Researchers who can grasp these differences will be wiser in choosing methods, designing research, and drawing conclusions that align with the study’s objectives.

*) This article is adapted from the Teaching Module of the Research Methodology in Islamic Education Management course, Part 5: Understanding Paradigms, Axioms, and Special Concepts in Quantitative and Qualitative Research
Lecturer: Prof. Dr. H. A. Rusdiana, M.M.

(https://digilib.uinsgd.ac.id/id/eprint/121673

CV Dadan Rizkya Syaripudin