Analytical vs Descriptive Research Methodology
Analytical research in summary has the purpose of evaluating, comparing and analyzing the matter or data being researched, in contrast to the descriptive research which concentrates on presenting the facts and information about the subject.
3 Types of Analytical research method:
• Regression Analysis research: The analytical research is further subdivided into Logistic, Linear hierarchal, Duration and Ordinary least squares (OLS) methods due to the data elements effect on the analytics outcome.
• Grouping Analysis research: this type of analytics is based on arranging the data into groups according to data or element characteristics.
• Multiple Equation method: can be classified into 1) Path analysis and 2) SEM-structural equation models that is basically a deeper description of the regression analytical method.
3 Types of Descriptive research method:
• Observation Method: carry the research on both the natural existence and the laboratory setting. It can also be like in vivo and invitro to drive analytics.
• Case Study Method: takes the research more personal to a specific matter needed to be further analyzed.
• Survey Method: the participants answer certain questionnaire which in turn are processed in an analytical way to get the result.
Another classification for the Descriptive research is as the following:
1.Case study
2.Case series study
3.Cross-sectional study
4.Longitudinal study
5.Retrospective study
Another classification for the Descriptive research is as the following:
1.Case study
2.Case series study
3.Cross-sectional study
4.Longitudinal study
5.Retrospective study
Table of difference between the Analytical and Descriptive Research:
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Analytical Research
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Descriptive Research
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Used when the various aspects of the research subject are available
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Used when little is known about the research subject
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Rely on development of new data
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Rely on preexisting data
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Collected data is analyzed and explained
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Survey methods and fact-finding enquires
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Why
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When, where and who
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Hypothesis needed
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No Hypothesis needed
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Beyond merely describing the characteristics
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Ascertains and describes the characteristics
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Explains existing affairs from available data
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Describes the state of affairs as it exists in the present
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Works within the constraint’s variables
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No control over the variables
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Evaluates the causality of associations
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Illustrates potential associations
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