Final answer:
Quantitative research involves numerical data, while qualitative research involves non-numerical data. Researchers choose one over the other depending on their research question and the type of data they want to collect.
Step-by-step explanation:
Quantitative research involves collecting and analyzing numerical data, such as statistics or measurements. It focuses on objective facts and figures that can be measured and analyzed using statistical methods. Qualitative research, on the other hand, involves gathering non-numerical data, such as narratives or interviews. It aims to understand the subjective experiences, beliefs, and motivations of individuals or groups.
Researchers may choose one method over the other depending on the nature of their research question and the type of data they want to collect. Quantitative research is often used when researchers want to test hypotheses or determine the prevalence or correlation of certain factors. It allows for generalization and statistical analysis. Qualitative research, on the other hand, is useful when researchers want to explore complex social phenomena or gain in-depth insights into people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It allows for rich description and understanding of context.