Physiotherapy: Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research

Sometimes it is not always obvious what type of research you are looking at.

This might be because the title and abstract do not provide this specific information.                              

Generally, the methods and results section of a study will contain this information. The methods should explicitly state the research design and how the data was collected and analysed whilst the presentation of the results can help to confirm whether a study is quantitative or qualitative.  

Quantitative research involves the collection and analysis of numerical data. This can include statistics, datasets, graphs and charts. In healthcare, quantitative research seeks to answer clinical effectiveness-type questions. For example, how effective a particular intervention is in treating a condition or whether there is any clinical significance with causation type studies e.g. does x lead to y?

Usually, if authors are referring to tests or scales, then this is quantitative research. 

Please note that some observational studies and the use of questionnaires and surveys can be used in quantitative research (although these tend to be associated closely with qualitative research). 

How to recognise a quantitative article

Whilst searching for literature on a topic, you may encounter mixed-methods research.

Mixed methods simply means that the study uses both quantitative and qualitative research methods to collect and analyse the data. 

You may want to speak with your tutor whether you can include mixed-methods research in your assignments. 

Qualitative research often focuses on lived experiences, attitudes, perceptions, etc. of a particular group or population. This type of research focuses heavily on words and the use of thematic analysis. 

In the results section of a study, you will often see either excerpts from interviews or quotations which relate to a specific theme emerging from the research.

Usually, if authors are conducting interviews and focus groups -  - these can be deemed qualitative studies.

You may also encounter words such as 'grounded theory',  'ethnography' or 'phenomenology' as types of methodological approaches.

Please note that the inclusion of questionnaires or surveys, or observational studies (as a research design) does not necessarily mean it is qualitative.

How to recognise a qualitative article

▶️ Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research : the differences explained

▶️ Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research (Practical Research 2)

▶️ Qualitative vs Quantitative vs Mixed Methods: how to choose research methodology