Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods

Teacher(s)

De Mol Jan; Edwards Martin; Van Parys Hanna (compensates De Mol Jan);

Language

English

Content

The course uses a reverse class approach that builds on the student's understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methods. Specifically, the students must start the course with a Bachelor's level understanding of the following methods: 
Qualitative methods

• Construction of a qualitative research design and the epistemological position
• Data collection methods: semi-directive interview, focus group, participant observation, diary, visual methods
• Methods of data analysis: thematic analysis, grounded theory, phenomenological methods, discursive methods, narrative methods
• Assessing research quality: Validity and triangulation

Quantitative methods

• Research questions and hypotheses
• Variables; factors of validity and reliability
• Selection of participants
• Methods for the relationship between variables, differences in levels of a variable, and differences within a variable (and methods of conterbalancing).
• Research methods and the university and clinic ethics board

During the course, the students will work in groups to create a novel quantitative and a novel qualitative research method (two different evaluations). Students will be supported during the course by the two professors, who will facilitate a deepening of understanding and skills in the application of qualitative and quantitative research methods to new research questions and hypotheses.

Teaching methods

Lectures and supervisions

Evaluation methods

There are two evaluations of the course made by a written report and a film:

• Developing and defining a quantitative research method (50%). 
• Developing and defining a qualitative research method (50%)

The final grade will be composed of the two integrated evaluations. Successful completion of these two evaluations is essential to demonstrate the skills and knowledge defined in the learning outcomes of the course unit. Successful completion of the course can only be achieved by passing each of the evaluation activities.

Other information

The course uses a hands-on approach where students create qualitative and quantitative methods. The course begins with an introduction. The students are then separated into groups, and with the support of each professor, the students develop a qualitative and a quantitative research method to study a common scenario. Following the completion of the methods, there is a discussion on the different values and qualities that each research method gives. 
Students should have a basic knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative methods, for example :

• LPSP1012 Observation Methodologies
• LPSP1210 Research Methods

Online resources

The Moodle platform

Bibliography

Willig, C. (2013). Introducing Qualitative Research in Psychology (3th Ed.).UK: Open University Press.

Faculty or entity

EPSY