Browse the suggested resources on this page to become more familiar with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and learn which is the best method to use when conducting specific research.
Sage Research Methods is an excellent resource to help you plan your project and become familiar with research methodology best practices.
This link opens in a new windowSAGE Research Methods contains information suited to all levels of researchers, from beginners starting their first projects to the most senior faculty. Content includes dictionary and encyclopedia entries, book chapters, full books, articles, videos, and the complete Quantitative Applications in the Social Sciences (Little Green Books) and Qualitative Research Methods series (Little Blue Books). You also have access to a project planner and modules on foundational concepts and data visualization.
Quantitative Research
Quantitative research is conclusive in its purpose. It tries to quantify a problem and understand how prevalent the problem is by looking for projectable results to a larger population. Sample sizes are large.
Some of the data collection used in quantitative research are:
Basically, numbers are used to determine the who, what, when, where and why.
Be sure to take a look at the video tutorial linked below to learn more about the application of quantitative data.
Qualitative Research
Qualitative research is used when the outcome of the research is unknown. It's a way to explore theories or ideas about a topic.
Qualitative research data is descriptive in nature. The sample sizes are small.
Some of the data collection used in qualitative research are:
A Functional Approach to Educational Research Methods and Statistics: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches by 
Conducting Educational Research by 
The Mixed Methods Research Workbook by 
Qualitative Data Collection Tools by 
SAGE Quantitative Research Methods by 
