Research process: 03-04-2008

Steps
 Identifying the problem
 Formulate
 Evaluate the cost of research
 Prepare the list of information
 Research design decisions
 Data collection
 Select the sample type
 Determine the sample size
 Organizing the field work
 Analyze the data and prepare report
Answer: From Wikipedia for QUALITATIVE (see link to the left):

Qualitative research is one of the two major approaches to research methodology in social
sciences. Qualitative research involves an indepth understanding of human behaviour and the
reasons that govern human behaviour. Unlike quantitative research, qualitative research relies on
reasons behind various aspects of behaviour. Simply put, it investigates the why and how of
decision making, as compared to what, where, and when of quantitative research. Hence, the
need is for smaller but focused samples rather than large random samples, which qualitative
research categorizes data into patterns as the primary basis for organizing and reporting results.

From Wikipedia for QUANTITATIVE (see link to the left):

Quantitative research is the systematic scientific investigation of quantitative properties and
phenomena and their relationships. Quantitative research is widely used in both the natural and
social sciences, from physics and biology to sociology and journalism. It is also used as a way to
research different aspects of education.
The objective of quantitative research is to develop and employ mathematical models, theories
and hypotheses pertaining to natural phenomena. The process of measurement is central to
quantitative research because it provides the fundamental connection between empirical
observation and mathematical expression of quantitative relationships.
The term quantitative research is most often used in the social sciences in contrast to qualitative
research.

Examples of qualitative statements/observations:

The freezing point of water is colder than the boiling point.

The sun is very bright.

A liter of water is heavier than a liter of ethanol.

Examples of quantitative statements/observations:

The freezing point of water is 0 °C and the boiling point is 100 °C.

The sun's intensity on earth is 100 W m-2.

A liter of water weighs 1000 grams and a liter of ethanol weighs 789 grams.