Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methodology and Techniques

By Wafda Khalida (1232010146)

Fifth-semester student, Department of Islamic Education Management, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, Bachelor's Degree Program, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

In the field of education, research plays a crucial role in generating valid and reliable knowledge. A common issue is the inaccuracy in selecting research methods and techniques, resulting in data that is unreliable and difficult to analyze. The assumption is that the success of research is highly dependent on the accuracy of the methods, instruments, and data analysis used. This problem arises because many researchers do not understand the fundamental differences between quantitative and qualitative approaches. Therefore, this paper aims to explain research methodology and techniques so that research results are more valid, reliable, and relevant to the development of educational science.

First, research in the field of education plays an important role in producing valid, reliable knowledge that can be used as a basis for decision making. A common phenomenon is researchers' inaccuracy in choosing research methods and techniques, resulting in inaccurate data that is difficult to analyze. The assumption is that the success of research depends heavily on the accuracy of the methods, instruments, and data analysis used. This problem arises because many researchers do not have a deep understanding of the differences between quantitative and qualitative approaches. Therefore, this paper aims to explain research methodology and techniques so that research results are more valid, consistent, and relevant to the development of educational science. 

Second, the population is the entire set of objects or individuals that are the focus of the research, while the sample is a part of the population that represents its characteristics. Selecting the right sample is very important so that the research results can be generalized validly and efficiently. Sampling techniques are divided into two types, namely probability, which is random and allows for generalization, and non-probability, which is more subjective and suitable for in-depth research. Data collection instruments such as questionnaires, observations, interviews, tests, and document analysis are used to obtain accurate data. In addition, instrument testing and content validity are carried out to ensure the feasibility and accuracy of measurements in the research. 

Third, data collection techniques in research can be carried out through quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative approach uses questionnaires, tests, and documentation to obtain numerical data that can be analyzed statistically. Meanwhile, the qualitative approach relies on in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis to understand the meaning and context of an educational phenomenon. To maintain data accuracy and consistency, researchers need to implement strategies such as triangulation, instrument testing, enumerator training, and systematic documentation. In addition, data collection ethics must also be considered so that the research process is honest, transparent, authorized, and respects the rights of research participants. 

Fourth, data analysis is an important stage in research to understand the relationships and influences between variables. Correlation analyses, such as Pearson, Spearman, and Kendall, are used to measure the strength and direction of relationships between variables, where Pearson is suitable for continuous data that is normally distributed with values between -1 and +1. Meanwhile, simple linear regression analysis is used to measure the effect of one independent variable on one dependent variable, while multiple regression involves more than one independent variable. The results of the analysis are presented in tables, graphs, and narratives for easy understanding and interpretation to support decision-making in the field of education. 

Therefore, good research requires precision in the selection of methods, instruments, and data analysis so that the results are valid, reliable, and relevant. Understanding the differences between quantitative and qualitative approaches, data collection techniques, and correlation and regression analysis is very important for producing accurate and useful findings for educational development.

This article is a review of part 6 of the Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methodology and Techniques from the teaching materials for the Educational Management Research Methods course, taught by Prof. Dr. H. A Rusdiana, M.M. https://digilib.uinsgd.ac.id/121673/ 

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