![]() ![]() Coding allows the researcher to categorize qualitative data to identify themes that correspond with the research questions and to perform quantitative analysis. The data may be in the form of descriptive words that can be examined for patterns or meaning, sometimes through the use of coding. Qualitative data may be difficult to precisely measure and analyze. ![]() For example, it could be notes taken during a focus group on the quality of the food at Cafe Mac, or responses from an open-ended questionnaire. It is collected using questionnaires, interviews, or observation, and frequently appears in narrative form. Qualitative data describes qualities or characteristics. Statistical analysis software, such as SPSS, is often used to analyze quantitative data. This data are usually gathered using instruments, such as a questionnaire which includes a ratings scale or a thermometer to collect weather data. ![]() For example, it could be the number of first year students at Macalester, or the ratings on a scale of 1-4 of the quality of food served at Cafe Mac. It is data that can either be counted or compared on a numeric scale. Quantitative data are used when a researcher is trying to quantify a problem, or address the "what" or "how many" aspects of a research question. ![]() Research data can be placed into two broad categories: quantitative or qualitative. ![]()
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