Examine the general differences between quantitative and qualitative Essay

Examine the general differences between quantitative and qualitative methodologies. What are the advantages when employing them in combination - Essay Example For instance, three professionals in research methodology offer that quantitative research seeks the â€Å"quantification of parameters such as number, size, connectivity, and the spatial arrangement of the different components of the structure under study† (Evans, Janson & Nyengaard, 2004: 87). In this definition, quantification essentially suggests a confirmation by utilising various research instruments designed to provide, in the broadest hope, irrefutable evidence that certain events related to the research topic can be correlated or proven to be accurate. Perhaps a more appropriate method to describe quantitative research is to recognise how various business and organisational researchers measure change over time. By adopting a longitudinal study, quantitative research methods can be utilised in a study programme which measures the impact of organisational change on various employees (the sample population). For instance, the utilisation of surveys or closed-ended questionnaires distributed to the appropriate sample group prior to the implementation of an organisational change initiative can measure pre-existing attitudes using a numerical or statistical approach to data analysis to determine whether a noticeable trend in employee behaviours exists. After the implementation of the change programme, similar survey instruments can be distributed to the same sample group to determine whether attitudes have changed over time. Thus, in this scenario, quantitative research provides a numerical representation for elements of human behaviour and avoiding issues of subjective analysis (which can be questioned by peer researchers) because the data returned is quite concrete. The measurement of outcomes associated with change are often important research areas in nearly all scientific disciplines (Duncan, 1999: 114). Thus, when attempting to link particular subject behaviours with elements of their general environment,

Classical Realism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Classical Realism - Essay Example Classical realism may seem a realistic approach in international relations however; to implement the same may not be entirely possible. The changing dynamics of world politics, globalization may not allow nations to continue to dominate for longer period of time. Further, the influence of such forces may not allow complete independence to the States to design and execute their international relations strategies in the light of their own self-interest. Classical Realism is rooted in the belief that since desire for power is one of the characteristics of the flawed human nature therefore States also attempt to increase their capabilities to gain more power. As such for classical realists, the international politics is bad or evil because people making the foreign policies are often bad too. The very concept of classical realism therefore suggests that the self-interests of the nations are basically above any other moral obligations of any State. Classical realism also outlines the need for nation-states and indicates that they are motivated by the national interests. These national interests however, are disguised in the overall moral obligations of the States. Classical realists argue that at the international level, States are the major actors deciding on their own based upon overall costs and benefits. It is however, critical to understand that there is an inherent dichotomy within classical realism. Iadvocates that the domestic politics as well as affairs should be dealt in accordance.