Restructing Ideas
...hich are qualitative, quantitative, experimental and nonexperimental. “Any given investigation is characterized by two of these labels” (Mertler & Charles, 2005, p. 29). Qualitative research produces and relies upon narrative data, while quantitative research explores traits and situations from which numerical data are obtained. Quantitative research is based on statements such as "anything that exists in a certain quantity and can be measured" (Custer, 1996, p. 3). Experimental research is used to explore possible cause-effect relationships by varying the independent variable and nonexperimental research is one that does not involve the manipulation of an independent variable to ascertain its effect on a dependent variable. The third research method pertains to the use of questions. Researchers using this technique obtain information from subjects by posing questions that elicit responses. Questions asked follow into eight categories which include ethnographic, historical, descriptive, correlational, action, evaluation, causal-comparative and experimental. The most useful categorization scheme to use for research would have to depend on a number of things, from availability of resources to the goals and objectives of the researcher. On a subjective level, I believe the methodology research is most useful to reach goals defined as a researcher and educator. This approach uses quantitative and qualitative methods that can be used together to provide an understanding of educational environme...