Quantitative vs Qualitative Design

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Research designs are a type of quantitative design used to gather data in evidence-based practice (EBP) clinical situations. Depending on the type of data required there are several types of data collections that occur depending on needs or requirements by the researcher. Boswell & Cannon (2014), states that quantitative designs can be experimental, nonexperimental, or quasi-experimental (p.204). Experimental design is a design that includes randomization, a control group and manipulation between or among variables to examine probability. Rigor and control of extraneous variables allow researchers to establish a cause-effect relationships testing casual relationships (Polit and Beck, 2012).Experimental designs strengths are that a researcher gains first hand knowledge based on the use of actual tests and trials. The weaknesses are that outcomes may not be the most desirable and may be cause for a major effect up to the death of a patient. There is also the subject of ethics, how much exposure to experimental research is considered enough or is justified. Nonexperimental design Arnold (1997) comes in many forms and generally refers to research that does not employ randomization and control groups (p.44) .This is a non intrusive way to research. Based on actual fact and findings one can discover the actual results needed. There is not a need to implement unnecessary costs and expenditures to establish an actual cause and effect scenario. The data has been collected and can be used to initiate different methodologies. Contrary to the use of experimental research design, the use of nonexperimental design may result in outdated and unusable results. For example, the previous cure for certain mental conditions involved electroshock therapy, whereas the use of hormonal therapy and psychological counsel may serve as a better method. Quasi-experimental research

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