The most fundamental distinction between qualitative and quantitative research lies in their philosophical assumptions about the nature of reality, knowledge, and truth. These assumptions guide how researchers understand the world, how they collect data, and how they interpret findings.

1. Ontology (Nature of Reality)

• Quantitative Research (Positivism):
  Believes that reality is objective, stable, and measurable. There is only one truth that exists independently of human perception. Researchers aim to discover universal laws or patterns that can explain and predict phenomena.
  Example: A study measuring students’ motivation levels using a standardized questionnaire assumes motivation can be objectively quantified.

• Qualitative Research (Constructivism / Interpretivism):
  Believes that reality is subjective and socially constructed. There are multiple truths shaped by individual experiences, culture, and context. The researcher seeks to understand these meanings rather than measure them.
  Example: A study exploring how students experience motivation in a classroom focuses on personal stories, emotions, and interactions.

2. Epistemology (Nature of Knowledge)

• Quantitative:
  Knowledge is objective and value-free. The researcher remains detached to ensure neutrality and avoid bias. Data are collected through instruments and analyzed statistically.

• Qualitative:
  Knowledge is co-created between the researcher and participants. The researcher is part of the research process, interpreting meaning through engagement, reflection, and dialogue.

3. Methodological Implications

• Quantitative: Uses structured methods such as experiments, surveys, and statistical analysis to test hypotheses.

• Qualitative: Uses flexible and emergent designs like interviews, observations, and document analysis to understand phenomena in depth.

🔹 In summary:
Quantitative research seeks to explain and predict, while qualitative research seeks to understand and interpret.
Quantitative assumes one measurable reality, whereas qualitative acknowledges multiple constructed realities.