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Is the debate on quantitative versus qualitative research really necessary?
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 17:11 authored by Abbott-Chapman, JARecent writings suggest that educators have become locked in contentious arguments about types of research and about research methods when they might more productively concentrate upon the development of research confidence and a research culture in education. From this the rigorous and appropriate application of differing methodologies to achievement of research and policy goals and intentions will naturally follow. We need to look more closely at why the debate on qualitative versus quantitative research is seen to be meaningful, let alone necessary, and this takes us into the realms of wider social and political values and understandings. The article argues that the debate about methodologies reflects a confusion about intentions and purposes in educational research, especially with regard to policy needs and applications, and that what is needed now is a complete ‘upfront’ review of research goals and values in education, and in relation to other subject disciplines.
History
Publication title
Australian Educational ResearcherVolume
20Pagination
49-63ISSN
0311-6999Department/School
Menzies Institute for Medical ResearchPublisher
Springer NetherlandsPlace of publication
NetherlandsRights statement
Copyright 1993 Australian Association for Research in EducationRepository Status
- Restricted