Summary
Highlights
The video introduces the concept of research approaches by distinguishing them from general life approaches. In everyday tasks, multiple methods can achieve a single goal. However, in research, a specific, assigned approach must be used for each type of study, making the process more structured and less flexible than daily tasks.
This approach is designed for quantitative research, focusing on empirical data and controlling variables. It relies on numbers and uses tools like survey questionnaires or observational checklists for data collection. It dismisses personal feelings or perceptions.
The naturalistic approach is for qualitative research and is often called 'people-oriented'. It explores individuals' perceptions, viewpoints, feelings, emotions, social relations, lifestyles, beliefs, and practices. Data is expressed through words or visuals rather than numbers.
This approach combines both qualitative and quantitative research methods. It allows for the integration of different research designs, data collection, and analysis procedures, enhancing the validity, reliability, and accuracy of the study and offering multiple perspectives.
Hard sciences (e.g., biology, physics) typically align with quantitative research, using numbers, testing theories, and seeking cause-and-effect relationships with statistical analysis and generalizations. Soft sciences (e.g., sociology, psychology) relate to qualitative research, using words to develop theories and understand human behavior through thematic analysis and researcher interpretation.
The video concludes by reiterating that quantitative research (hard sciences) uses the scientific/positive approach, qualitative research (soft sciences) uses the naturalistic approach, and mixed-method research combines them using the triangulation approach.