Differentiates positivist qualitative research from nonpositivist approaches (descriptive/phenomenological, interpretive/hermeneutic, and discourse analysis). (SK)

Recognizing that there are several tools available for conducting vocational education research, the author emphasizes two perspectives: (1) quantitative research, broadly defined as having an emphasis on numbers, and (2) qualitative research, defined as not having an emphasis on numbers. A balance among methodologies is recommended. (Author/JOW)

Projects three possible outcomes to the criticisms of objective, quantitative educational research by antinaturalists, interpretivists, and critical theorists during the 1980s, referred to as the "Paradigm Wars." Argues for a pragmatic rapprochment of the paradigms based on the moral obligations of educational research. (FMW)

Exception is taken to Jacob's position; it is argued that a framework of distinct theoretical traditions is neither an accurate historical account of social science nor helpful to researchers. Classifying researchers and their projects into "traditions" is considered counterproductive. In addition, Jacob's neglect of British research is…

Reacts to Martin's (1995) essay concerning scientism in psychotherapy. Urges placing a moratorium on the "hermeneutic retreat" advocated by Martin, and urges capitalizing on the unique strengths of both positivistic and interpretive modes of inquiry. (JPS)

Calls purely quantitative measures of Hispanic aged mental health insufficiently sensitive to cultural factors. Describes uses and limitations of qualitative methods, especially in-depth interviews and life histories, and suggests that researchers include psychometric tests in interviews to improve data interpretation. Develops Adlerian…

This commentary praises the clustering technique of data gathering from clients described by Carney (1992). It also cautions that analyzing qualitative data by quantitative means must be done with care, so that a matrix analysis and resulting interpretation of data gathered through the clustering technique, as Carney suggests, is valid and…

Asserts that qualitative research is undervalued and cites evidence of its value, presents a definition of it, discusses how to evaluate the quality of a study, and suggests when and how qualitative findings can be applied to actual situations. Concludes with examples of two actual qualitative studies and two hypothetical situations where the…

An applied clinical research course helped nursing students acquire an understanding of research and its relationship to clinical practice. The course contrasted qualitative and quantitative methods, addressed ethical issues, and involved students in interviewing older adults about health behavior. (SK)

Quantitative research methods produce factual, reliable, and generalizable data. Qualitative methods generate rich, detailed, valid process data. Ways to integrate them include (1) using qualitative methods to develop quantitative instruments; (2) using qualitative methods to explain quantitative findings; (3) using quantitative methods to…

Discusses the strengths of a qualitative study of the effectiveness of environmental impact statements. Notes that the study explores an ill-defined area and relates writing to the situation in which it occurs. (RS)

Responds to counterpoints to original paper (Moon, Dillon, and Sprenkle, 1990). Describes continuum of social science inquiry paradigms as framework for exploring assumptions underlying respective positions. Addresses key issues raised by respondents and encourages balance in research efforts and continuing dialogue. Restates basic thesis that…

Responds to an article in the same issue of this journal. Explains the apparent "conflicts" between findings of two research studies (with different purposes and methods) of the same classroom. Emphasizes the different natures of qualitative and quantitative research. (SR)

In this article I argue that qualitative research that focuses attention on how change is being understood and experienced on the ground can contribute to broader theoretical insights. In recent research I have been exploring how lecturers apply their understandings of learning outcomes and personal development planning. At one level, these…

Intended to evoke discussion in the research community about the research trend of the 21st century, this paper provides a broad, general definition of qualitative research that covers the many terms currently used under this heading, and discusses seven issues that the research community should address in some manner: (1) new or fad; (2) too many…