Introducing data

Data is all around us, in both our professional and personal experiences. During our discussion topic this week, we will be exploring different types of data that you encounter in your everyday lives, whether it’s at home or on the job.

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:

Discuss the differences between quantitative and qualitative data, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. As a part of your response, describe one type of quantitative data and one type of qualitative data that you encounter in your professional or personal life.

ANSWER

Quantitative and Qualitative Data

Used to answer questions like ‘how many?’, ‘how much?’ and ‘how often?’ quantitative data is the value of data based on numerical figures and values (Mayer, 2015). The data is quantifiable in nature and can be used in statistical analysis and relevant mathematical calculations. Quantitative data is used in real situations to give accurate information concerning certain values and numerical figures. Mathematical techniques are used to verify quantitative information, therefore making it viable in nature. For instance, quantitative data can be used for making certain decisions. A buyer may ask a shopkeeper, ‘how much does a kilogram of sugar cost?’ The response given in this case will be the quantitative data, and the customer can use this information to gauge whether they can afford it or not.

During my medical internship program, I was appointed as part of the team that was required to collect data on how much teenage pregnancy had occurred in the region within three years. The data was quantitative in nature and gave us accurate information based on our research.

On the other hand, qualitative data approximates and characterizes data. The data is non-numerical in nature and can be collected and recorded through observations (Mayer, 2015). Some other ways through which the data can be collected are through one-on-one interviews and focus groups. Qualitative data is commonly referred to as categorical data, as the data can be categorically classified based on similar attributes and characteristics. For example, through observations, a ball is described as black, white, or yellow in nature.

I used qualitative data during my medical internship to analyze outdated equipment. Through observations, I grouped old equipment and new ones separated (qualitative data) and then collected their figures (quantitative data).

References

Mayer, I. (2015). Qualitative research with a focus on qualitative data analysis. International Journal of Sales, Retailing & Marketing, 4(9), 53-67.