Research Methods Quantitative Versus

Question: Discuss about theResearch Methodsfor Quantitative Versus. Answer: Quantitative Versus Qualitative Research So many definitions have been put forward to give the meaning of either quantitative or qualitative research. A definition by (Judd, 2011) puts it that, quantitative research is explaining phenomena by collecting numerical data that are analyzed using mathematically based methods and in particular statistics. To reinforce his definition it can be concluded that any approach that uses mathematical or numerical technique in data collection is categorized as quantitative research. In this type of research only data which is measurable is collected and therefore means that the data collected is usually numerical (May, 2011). The advantage of quantitative research has is that it can allow collection of large data but still appear cheap. It also upholds consistency. Regardless of how many times it is done the result will always be the same unlike in qualitative research where interpretation of information varies from one interviewer to another. Qualitative research on the other hand collects data through measuring of feelings, observations, views and opinions (Munhall, 2008). Qualitative research describes but does not quantify phenomena.It is very subjective as it involves the employment of the five senses; that is hearing, observation and sometimes feelings. Because of this, qualitative research is sometimes not accurate as the result depends on an individual interpretation and not figures. Researchers say that qualitative research is exhaustive in nature since it deals with first -hand information but its main undoing is that compared to quantitative research approach is that it cannot allow collection of large amount of data since it is expensive. Sampling Techniques used in Quantitative and Qualitative Research There are several sampling techniques that can be used in qualitative or quantitative research. They are categorized into two; Probability sampling Non probability sampling. Probability sampling employs randomization to make sure that each element in a population has got an equal chance of being selected. They include the following; Random sampling Stratified sampling Systematic sampling Cluster random sampling Multi-stage random sampling Non- probability sampling on the other hand refers to sampling method where randomization is not required (Janice, 2003). It is usually applicable only where a representative sample is needed. They include the following; Accidental sampling Expert sampling Snowball sampling Purposive sampling Modal sampling. Random sampling technique is always not the best sampling method especially in qualitative research. This is because in qualitative research is always geared to get right information from individuals of interest (Ray, 2000). And to get the right individual with the characteristics he or she wants, a random sampling method might end up with a sample with individuals who are not of interest. Research Problem There is a practice that is almost being embraced by the young Chinese multinational companies. The practice hinders growth in that it does not allow for sharing of information. In a business setting, staff should adopt an operating system where people share knowledge to solve day to day business challenges. For example having a lateral kind of information flow system allows for spread of knowledge across all level while top-down style of communication limits the spread of knowledge thereby letting only a handful staff to gain this knowledge. So the research problem is working practices in Chinese multinational companies which do not encourage flow of knowledge across hinders business growth of only in china but also globally. Research Objective The main objective of this research study proposal will be to evaluate the extent to which young multinational companies in china implement the practice of international business transfer knowledge. It seeks to know whether this practice is being implemented or not, and if yes it is being implemented, to what extent are they doing so? Is it to the extent that it can encourage transfer of knowledge efficiently? Data Collection The research study will employ the use of primary methods of data collection. The first one will be the use of one-on-one or face-to-face interview. This will enable the research obtain first-hand information from top managers of the companies. The study may also employ the use of questionnaires so as to be able to collect sensitive information that staff would not reveal in a face-to-face interview (Mazur, 2007). This will also help the study collect a lot of information within a very short period of time. This research is a quantitative one since a longitudinal approach will be applied. It is longitudinal because data will be collected more than once at different times. And longitudinal approach is mostly possible in quantitative research where monitoring and evaluation is done periodically. References Janice M. (2003). A review committee's guide for evaluating qualitative proposals. Qualitative Health Research, Judd, C. M. (2002). Research methods in social relations. May, T. (2011). Social Research: Issues, Methods and Research. McGraw-Hill International. Mazur, D. J. (2007). Evaluating the science and ethics of research on humans: a guide for IRB members. Munhall, P. L. (2008). Ethical considerations in qualitative research. Western Journal of Nursing Research, 10(2), 150-162. Ray C. (2000). Influencing the policy process with qualitative research. Lincoln (eds.), Handbook of Qualitative Research, pp. 1001-1017. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.