Data Analysis

The articulated problem and the aims of the research direct the selection of data analysis method.

Your choice of data method of analysis is dependent on the research problem and the aims of your research. If you seek answers to certain kinds of research questions, you may reasonably and naturally choose particular kinds of data methods of analysis. Even though methods of analysis are methodological choices, they are also linked to theoretical starting points and assumptions. These assumptions follow the theories of the production of knowledge, which are linked to the orientations of the Philosophy of Science.

The basic classifications of data analysis are the divisions of quantitative methods of analysis and qualitative methods of analysis. In the interactive graphic, the methods presented in the left of the circle are typical quantitative methods of analysis, while those methods presented in the right, top and bottom of the circle are typical qualitative methods of analysis. However, several methods of analysis can be positioned between the quantitative and qualitative methods. The data methods of analysis presented in the circle function as links to more detailed explanations.