Quantitative Theory or Qualitative Concept

All social science research is based on qualitative, quantitative or both frameworks. Social science students often are still confused about the difference between these two foundational structures when conducting their dissertation study. Students often ask whether a theory or concept or both necessary at all when conducting research. A foundational framework is necessary because all social science research comes from a belief about human reality. A framework as a basis is therefore useful to researchers. A framework is used for explaining or understanding (quantitative) or justifying and assuring (qualitative) how or why findings or problems investigated exist, and for solving a problem. While quantitative theories are for measuring and describing the severity and direction of a relationship(s), qualitative concepts describe why there is a relationship between variables, and what makes the relationship exist.

Theories are necessary for providing a systematic response to what was observed in a study. This type of response allows researchers to posit the extent to which findings are accounted for by the framework. A researcher can then confirm, challenge, or extend earlier findings (if any).  This type of investigation requires controlled and critical thought processes from a deep sense of analysis and exploration that does not come from just gathering or collecting data. The framework allows placing data findings in perspective, not leaving wide and speculative gaps, but instead closing an existing gap in a discipline or literature. For instance, if a researcher wanted to study the quality of calories a mother consumed during pregnancy and the scholastic ability of their child. Without a framework to attach to the study, there is no context or perspective for basing significance for the study. A framework provides understanding on why or the extent observations exist or how the framework is accounted for in the data.

This type of understanding in research among student scholars is new and difficult when conducting quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods research. Research is complicated and takes a long time to understand, thus restricting progress. As a dissertation coach, I deliver deeper and faster understanding of these and all areas of the study that is likely to slow down your progress. Investing in yourself by using a dissertation coach like me is likely to help you achieve your academic goals and ensure that you cross that commencement stage. Imagine the excitement among your friends and family when you announce your successful completion of your doctorate degree. The crowds will roar, and the thrill of victory will be yours. Contact me and claim your victory today, no waiting.