Qualitative and Quantitative Methodologies Compared: Ontological and Epistemological Perspectives

Abstract

This article clarifies fundamental differences between qualitative and quantitative methodologies from ontological and epistemological perspectives. Additionally, it explicates the issue of compatibility and integration of the two approaches. Through the synthesis and analysis of previously published materials the author shows that the ultimate difference between quantitative and qualitative approaches lies in the logic of justification, not methods. The two approaches stem from two entirely different ontological and epistemological perspectives representing two distinct worldviews.