FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which research method relies on unmeasurable qualities like observations and case studies?

1. Quantitative research

2. Comparative descriptive research

3. Qualitative research

4. Correlation research

The correct answer is: Qualitative research

Qualitative research is a method that focuses on understanding the underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations behind behaviors and phenomena. It relies on non-numeric data, such as interviews, observations, and case studies, to gather detailed insights into a particular subject. This approach is ideal for exploring complex issues where quantifiable data might overlook important nuances. In qualitative research, researchers aim to understand individuals' experiences and how they interpret their surroundings, often leading to deeper comprehension of social contexts. This method is particularly useful in fields like education, psychology, and social sciences, where the richness of human experience is crucial for effective analysis. Such unmeasurable qualities provide a more comprehensive understanding of the topic being studied. Conversely, other research methods, such as quantitative research, focus on numerical and statistical analysis, often disregarding the subjective aspects of human experience. Comparative descriptive research seeks to compare and describe characteristics across different groups, while correlation research examines the relationship between two variables, all of which limit the depth and contextual insights that qualitative research can provide.