SLIEL a07_t14

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The essential characteristics of this type of enquiry are: 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Babbie (2010) suggests that there are strengths and limitations in 
the use of quantitative methods. These are: 
 
 
Strengths 
 
 
Limitations 
 A broader study can be 
undertaken; 
 It might miss contextual 
detail; 
 Greater objectivity and 
accuracy in results; 
 Static and rigid approach; 
 The study can be 
replicated, analyzed and 
compared to similar studies 
 Results do not provide 
enough details on behavior, 
motivation and attitudes; 
 It is easier to avoid personal  Data might sometimes be 
 
 The data is usually gathered using more structured research instruments. 
 The results are based on larger sample sizes that are representative of 
the population. 
 The research study can usually be replicated or repeated, given its high 
reliability. 
 Researcher has a clearly defined research question to which objective 
answers are sought. 
 All aspects of the study are carefully designed before data is collected. 
 Data are in the form of numbers and statistics. 
 Project can be used to generalize concepts more widely, predict future 
results, or investigate causal relationships. 
 Researcher uses tools, such as questionnaires or equipment to collect 
numerical data. 
(Babbie, 2010) 
 
 
 
bias, since researchers can 
keep a distance from the 
subjects taking part in the 
study and/or employ 
subjects who are unknown 
to them. 
narrow and superficial and 
results might be limited; 
  Researchers control the 
exercise by using an 
unnatural, artificial 
environment, very different 
from the real world.