Research Study : Paradigm, Axioms, and Key Concepts in Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Research Study: Paradigms, Axioms, and Key Concepts in Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Ragil Raesandi Baehaki / Student of MPI 5E Class, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Education, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

 

Global phenomena such as the digital revolution, educational inequality, and economic dynamics demand research capable of scientifically addressing the complexity of social and educational issues. To produce valid and relevant research, it is essential to have a deep understanding of paradigms, axioms, and appropriate research methods. A common problem arises when there is a mismatch between the chosen research method and the complexity of the issue, leading to bias and misinterpretation. Therefore, this paper aims to present the fundamental concepts of quantitative and qualitative research---covering constructs, indicators, phenomena, data, and variables---to produce systematic, accurate, and meaningful studies.

 

First, Quantitative research is based on the positivist paradigm, which emphasizes objectivity, numerical measurement, causal relationships, and generalization of findings. In contrast, qualitative research is rooted in the constructivist paradigm, focusing on meaning, context, participants' experiences, and social interpretation. Paradigms serve as the philosophical framework of research, while axioms are the fundamental assumptions underlying them: quantitative research assumes that reality is single and objective, whereas qualitative research views reality as multiple and subjective. In practice, quantitative methodology prioritizes instrument validity and reliability, while qualitative methodology emphasizes triangulation and data transparency to ensure the credibility of findings.

 

Second, Every research begins with identifying a problem, which serves as the starting point of inquiry. The problem must be clear, specific, relevant, and systematically testable. After identifying the problem, the researcher formulates a conceptual definition that provides a theoretical explanation of the studied concept, ensuring a strong scientific foundation. Subsequently, abstract concepts are translated into operational definitions so they can be empirically measured through measurable indicators. The relationship between the problem and the concept is crucial because the research problem must be explained through the appropriate conceptual framework to produce results that are not only empirically meaningful but also theoretically contributive.

 

Third, In research, a construct is an abstract representation of a phenomenon---such as leadership or learning motivation---that cannot be directly measured. To bridge this gap, indicators serve as specific measurement tools that connect constructs with empirical data. The process of translating indicators into research instruments is called operationalization, which can take the form of questionnaires, interviews, observations, or tests. The success of an instrument heavily depends on the validity of its indicators---how well they truly represent the studied construct. Validity determines whether the research results can be regarded as credible and scientific.

 

Fourth, A phenomenon is a tangible occurrence that captures the researcher's attention and becomes the starting point for developing problems, concepts, and hypotheses. From these phenomena, researchers collect data, which may take the form of numbers in quantitative research or narratives and texts in qualitative research. The data are then analyzed through variables---characteristics that vary and serve as the focus of study. Variables can be independent, dependent, moderating, mediating, or control, depending on the analytical purpose. To measure these variables, researchers use measurement scales, including nominal (categories without order), ordinal (categories with order but unequal intervals), interval (ordered with equal intervals but without an absolute zero), and ratio (ordered with equal intervals and an absolute zero, allowing all mathematical operations).

 

Quantitative research rests on a positivist paradigm emphasizing objectivity, measurement, and generalization, while qualitative research is based on a constructivist paradigm emphasizing meaning, context, and social interpretation. Every study begins with a clear and relevant problem, elaborated through concepts with conceptual and operational definitions that can be systematically tested. Constructs and indicators bridge theory and data, operationalized through research instruments where validity ensures the credibility of findings. Furthermore, phenomena, data, and variables form the basis of analysis, measured through nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio scales to produce accurate and meaningful findings.

 

This paper is summarized from the Teaching Material of the Management Research Methodology Course Part 5, by Prof. Dr. H. A. Rusdiana, MM. 

 

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