The pros and cons of quantitative research

Both quantitative and qualitative research have their benefits and drawbacks. Which research method you use will depend on the nature of your research study, although of course, you may opt to do mixed methods research, in which case you can employ both qualitative and qualitative research methods. The pros and cons of quantitative research have been extensively debated, and in the past, generally, science students mainly employed quantitative methods, while humanities students used qualitative research methods.

However, research has now become more rigorous, with humanity students developing computer models, and having a hand in the development of databases. In 2015 the Guardian newspaper reported that a graduate student in the English department at the illustrious Stanford University had developed a computer program which is able to predict bestsellers on the New York Times listings. Humanities researchers have also developed a database which can track (among other things) the development of the Transatlantic slave trade. Yet another database is being used to preserve and publish the Dead Sea scrolls. There are many other examples of humanities students transferring their skills so that they inform scientific fields.

It is the academics from the wold’s humanities departments who explore ethical issues and work put how the past can inform the present. It is the humanities that teach students about the world outside the four walls of a classroom. In today’s world critical-thinking skills are at a premium, and these, as well as the very necessary communication skills, are taught in humanities departments.

However, humanities departments are often poorly funded and undervalued.