Both the qualitative and quantitative research designs have similar rigor, with the argument that each has unique approaches to approaching a study question. In contrast to quantitative exploration, which is receptive to data and utilizes a literary technique to conform to a school of thought using sample size, the qualitative approach is responsive to data. This approach utilizes a scholarly method to comply with a pragmatic standpoint using a relatively smaller subset. Interestingly, qualitative research gathers data and applies it to the development of a hypothesis. A researcher gathers information through interviews, observations, focus groups, and document analysis. The philosophy of a qualitative research method guides how responses are posed, data is gathered, and results are evaluated. Individuals believe that descriptive studies lack the same thoroughness and maintain the highest level as quantitative approaches would (Rahman, 2017). This argument is because such a study is more on statistical evidence, seeing the numeric values and outcomes. In contrast, this study is much more concentrated on effective focus, observing a particular part of a study or goal observed by the researcher.
It is critical to have rigor in investigations, since it is linked to the usefulness of the study findings. Even though both sorts of studies get conclusions from distinct data sources, the experimental method retains its rigor due to philosophical viewpoints. Investigators define rigor as neutrality and the ability to generalize facts. Research teams are rigorous because they seem to be flexible and responsive enough to guarantee that methodologies are used to connect to philosophical standpoints, data is obtained extensively, and the findings portray the people’s point of view. This argument is why the research specialists perceive the experimental method as equally rigorous as quantitative research; interpreting the findings is different.
Qualitative research approaches can yield results that add to the body of nursing knowledge. Outcomes from qualitative studies cannot be generalized across all care delivery, but rather generalize treatment for specific patients in comparable settings to those studied. This descriptive study can produce results that can aid nursing care in analyzing and comprehending the data obtained from participants (Vretare & Anderzen-Carlsson, 2020). It has precision and conforms to almost the same specific objectives of the study as quantitative studies. However, it is wise to acknowledge that the descriptive approach is not impartial and difficult to quantify. When contrasting the two data collection techniques, rigor is distinguished. Sufficient sample size, accurate information collection and processing, and typically reproducible and reliable research are all signs of rigor in statistical investigations. Surprisingly, in qualitative research methods, rigor is described by the “philosophical standpoint,” in which data gathering and assessment are tuned to the inhabitants, compliant with the individual’s experiences and opinions, and attempts to describe their feelings, emotions, and experiences adequately.
A qualitative research approach remains crucial when investigating the patients’ safety issues identified during the first week. The enlightened society members argue that exploratory research design is the focus of qualitative research. It is utilized to figure out what is driving people’s decisions, views, and motives. It offers information about the topic or aids in the development of concepts or assumptions for quantitative studies (Rahman, 2017). Thus, while numerical research approaches are suitable and beneficial for various research topics, one may discover that a qualitative methodology yields distinct views that support answers to a particular question. Realizing the distinctions between descriptive and inferential statistics research approaches and their techniques will help one practice more effectively as a nurse.
References
Rahman, M. S. (2017). The advantages and disadvantages of using qualitative and quantitative approaches and methods in language “testing and assessment” research: A literature review. Journal of Education and Learning, 6(1), 102-112.
Vretare, L. L., & Anderzen-Carlsson, A. (2020). The critical care nurse’s perception of handover: A phenomenographic study. Intensive and Critical Care Nursing, 58, 102807.