Qualitative vs. Quantitative vs. Mixed Methods: Which Research Approach Is Right for Your Dissertation? - by Dr. Lucy Wells-Johnson
- lucywellsconsultin
- 3 minutes ago
- 2 min read
One of the most important decisions you’ll make in your dissertation journey is choosing your research method. This choice affects everything your data collection, analysis, and even how you present your findings. But with terms like qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods floating around, it can be confusing to figure out which one is right for you.
At Doctorate Done Right, I help graduate students clarify their research design so they can move forward with confidence. Let’s break down the differences, pros, and cons of each approach.
1. Qualitative Research
What It Is:
Qualitative research focuses on exploring experiences, perceptions, and meanings. It uses open-ended data like interviews, focus groups, and document analysis.
When to Choose It:
You want to explore why or how something happens
Your research questions are open-ended
You’re studying human experiences, social processes, or cultural contexts
Strengths:
Rich, detailed descriptions
Flexibility to explore unexpected findings
Strong for theory building
Limitations:
Smaller sample sizes limit generalizability
Data analysis can be time-consuming and subjective
2. Quantitative Research
What It Is:
Quantitative research focuses on measurable data and statistical analysis. It uses numbers, scales, and structured tools like surveys or experiments.
When to Choose It:
You want to measure or test specific variables
Your research questions are “how many,” “how much,” or “to what extent”
You aim to test a hypothesis or theory
Strengths:
Can handle large sample sizes
Results can be generalized (if designed well)
Statistical tools can reveal patterns and relationships
Limitations:
May overlook context and nuance
Rigid design can miss unexpected insights
3. Mixed Methods
What It Is:
Mixed methods combine qualitative and quantitative approaches in one study, using both narrative and numerical data.
When to Choose It:
Your research questions require both depth and breadth
You want to validate findings by using more than one method
You need numbers to show trends and stories to explain them
Strengths:
Provides a more complete understanding
Can strengthen validity by cross-checking results
Appeals to a wider academic audience
Limitations:
Requires more time and resources
Complexity can make design and analysis challenging
Qualitative Vs Quantitative......Mixed?
How to Decide Which Method Is Right for You
Ask yourself:
What does my research question require numbers, narratives, or both?
What type of data will best convince my committee?
Do I have the skills, tools, and time to collect and analyze my chosen data?
If you’re unsure, consult your advisor and consider working with a dissertation coach to help you align your method with your goals and timeline.
The Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your choice between qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods should be guided by your research question, your field’s expectations, and the type of evidence you need to make your case.
At Doctorate Done Right, I help you choose the method that sets you up for success — and then guide you through every step of executing it.
Book Your Free Strategy Session and take the guesswork out of your dissertation design.
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