WafaZulfatul Fadlilah, Mahasiswa S1 Manajemen Pendidikan Islam, Fakultas Tarbiyah an Keguruan, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung, 5/D
Research methodology in educational management is fundamental in shaping studies that aim to improve the quality and effectiveness of educational institutions. Quantitative and qualitative approaches serve as the main paradigms, each with unique strengths and limitations. Quantitative research emphasizes measurable data, while qualitative research focuses on meaning and context. The purpose of this essay is to discuss the theoretical foundations, characteristics, and types of research in educational management, comparing quantitative and qualitative approaches to highlight their complementary roles in addressing educational challenges.
First, Theoretical Foundation of Quantitative Research. Quantitative research is rooted in the positivist paradigm, which assumes that reality can be measured objectively. Its theoretical foundation emphasizes the use of numbers, variables, and measurable instruments to identify cause-and-effect relationships. In educational management, this approach is applied to test hypotheses, evaluate programs, and measure policy effectiveness. Quantitative research strongly prioritizes validity, reliability, and generalizability, making it a reliable basis for rational decision-making in managing education. By providing systematic and numerical evidence, it helps ensure accountability and objectivity in educational practices.
Second, Distinctive Characteristics of Quantitative Research. Quantitative research is characterized by numerical data, standardized instruments, and statistical analysis. Its process is systematic: identifying variables, developing instruments, and applying statistical techniques such as descriptive or inferential analysis. This research typically uses large samples to ensure representativeness. In educational management, quantitative research is commonly employed to assess performance, compare teaching models, or evaluate managerial strategies, producing results that can be objectively tested and replicated across different contexts.
Third, Distinctive Characteristics of Qualitative Research. Qualitative research emphasizes meaning and lived experience rather than numbers. Data are collected through observation, interviews, or documentation. This method is flexible, contextual, and positions the researcher as the primary instrument. In educational management, qualitative research is valuable for understanding school culture, leadership styles, and interpersonal dynamics within learning environments.
Fourth, Types of Research Based on Paradigms and Data Analysis. Research types include quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. Quantitative research applies deductive reasoning with statistical analysis, qualitative research uses inductive reasoning with meaning-based analysis, while mixed methods combine both to address the complexity of educational issues.
Therefore, it can be concluded that,the foundations of research methodology in educational management rest on quantitative and qualitative approaches. Each differs in its basis, characteristics, and analysis, yet both complement each other. Understanding both paradigms enables researchers to select or integrate methods appropriately.*)
*)This articel is a review of Part 3 Foundations of Research Methodology in Educational Management, taken from the teaching material of the Research Methodology in Management course, taught by Prof. Dr. H. A. Rusdiana, M.M (https://eknows.uinsgd.ac.id/pluginfile.php/1035857/mod_assign/introattachment/0/003-%20Part%20III%20Metodologi%20riset%20dan%20Jenis%20Riset.pdf?forcedownload=1)(Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches (4th ed.). SAGE Publications: https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/research-design/book255675)
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Wafa Zulfatul Fadlilah Lahir di Tasikmalaya, tanggal 27 Februari 2004. Merupakan anak pertama pasangan Bapak Mas'ud dengan Ibu Euis Nurhasanah. Alamat tempat Tinggal: Dusun Ciwangkal Desa Cimindi Kecamatan Cigugur Kabupaten Pangandaran, Jawa Barat 46392. Tlp/hp 082126847084 Email: fadlilahwafazulfatul@gmail.com Â
