AQA GCSE · Question 25.2 · Cognition and Behaviour
Give a definition of both qualitative and quantitative data.
Qualitative data:
Quantitative data:
How to approach this question
For each term, provide a clear and concise definition. For 'qualitative', think 'quality' or 'description'. For 'quantitative', think 'quantity' or 'numbers'.
Full Answer
In research, data can be broadly categorised into two types. Quantitative data deals with numbers and things you can measure objectively: dimensions such as height, weight, and scores on a test. It is useful for statistical analysis and identifying patterns and trends. Qualitative data deals with language and things you can observe but not easily measure: descriptions, interpretations, and opinions. It is useful for gaining a deep, rich understanding of a specific case or phenomenon. In this study, the amount of exercise in minutes is quantitative, while diary entries describing feelings would be qualitative.
Common mistakes
Mixing up the two definitions. Providing an example instead of a definition.
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