Write a brief essay (2-3 pages) in which you describe the basic techniques of qualitative data analysis strategies. Compare and contrast each of these techniques with those relevant to quantitative data analysis (it may help to briefly review chapter 9). Your answer should address the following questions:

Do you find yourself more drawn to a qualitative or quantitative approach?
Do you think it is more important to contribute to basic knowledge or shape social policy?
Do you favor a positivist/post-positivist or a constructivist/interpretivist philosophy as a basis for conducting social research?
What current social problem or social phenomenon should social scientists give priority to investigating?

Please explain your responses.

For full credit:

Your essay must be 2-3 pages long
Text should be double-spaced
Font must be Times New Roman, 12 pt
All margins must be 1 inch