Final answer:
Surveys often collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative methods involve statistical analysis to uncover patterns, while qualitative methods use in-depth interviews and analysis of content sources. Quantitative information helps understand trends and changes over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Surveys often collect both quantitative and qualitative data. For example, a researcher interviewing prisoners might receive quantitative data, such as demographics – race, age, sex, that can be analyzed statistically. The researcher might also collect qualitative data, such as why prisoners take advantage of educational opportunities while they serve and other explanatory information.
Quantitative sociology uses statistical methods such as surveys with large numbers of participants. Researchers analyze data using statistical techniques to see if they can uncover patterns of human behavior. Qualitative sociology seeks to understand human behavior by learning about it through in-depth interviews, focus groups, and analysis of content sources (like books, magazines, journals, and popular media).
Quantitative information is one of the most direct ways to understand limited, specific questions. Statistics created from quantitative data help researchers understand trends and changes over time. Counts of cultural remains, such as the number and distribution of animal remains found at a campsite, can show how much the campsite was used and what type of animal was being hunted.