The phenomenon in education and research today shows that the quality of policies and practices is highly influenced by the availability of valid, reliable, and accountable data and information. However, in reality, there is often an imbalance: some studies focus only on numerical data without capturing contextual meaning, while others provide rich insights but are difficult to generalize.
The assumption is that if research is conducted using the right approach—whether quantitative, qualitative, or a combination of both—the findings will better address real challenges in education comprehensively. Nevertheless, there remains a gap, as many researchers tend to rely solely on one method, resulting in incomplete findings. Moreover, limited understanding of research methodologies often leads to less-than-optimal outcomes in supporting theory, practice, or policy.
The purpose of this paper is to provide an understanding of the concepts, characteristics, and types of quantitative and qualitative research, including how the two can complement each other. In this way, researchers will have a strong foundation to choose the most appropriate research strategy so that the findings can contribute meaningfully to the development of knowledge and the improvement of education quality. Let us now explore quantitative and qualitative research in more detail.
First: Theoretical Foundation of Quantitative Research
Quantitative research is based on the positivist paradigm, which views reality as objective, measurable, and observable. This paradigm emphasizes the use of empirical and standardized scientific principles. According to Auguste Comte, social sciences should be studied in the same way as natural sciences. There are three key assumptions in quantitative research: objectivity, generalization, and causality. Objectivity requires researchers to remain neutral; generalization allows findings to apply to a broader population; and causality explains social phenomena in terms of cause and effect. The relationship between theory, hypothesis, and variables is central, tested using valid and reliable instruments.
Second: Key Characteristics of Quantitative Research
Quantitative research is characterized by the use of numerical data analyzed through statistical methods. Its research design is systematic, often involving surveys, experiments, or ex post facto approaches. The main purpose is to test hypotheses and identify relationships between variables. The strengths of this research lie in its objectivity, generalizability, and replicability. However, its weakness is its tendency to be reductive, as it only highlights measurable aspects and often overlooks deeper social contexts.
Third: Key Characteristics of Qualitative Research
Qualitative research is grounded in the interpretive paradigm, which emphasizes understanding meaning, processes, and human experiences. Unlike quantitative research, it does not focus on numbers but rather on social interactions and the meanings embedded within them. Common techniques include in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. Validity is maintained through measures such as credibility, transferability, and authenticity. The results provide rich and contextual insights, though they are difficult to generalize to a wider population.
Fourth: Types of Research Based on Paradigm and Data Analysis
Types of research in educational management can be categorized as follows:
