УДК 37.013.42 Qualitative and quantitative researches in the course of «Methodology of scientific researches» for future social workers

Abstract

The article substantiates the place and the role of qualitative and quantitative research methods in the process of studying the course of «Methodology of scientific researches» by future social workers. The authors make the point that there are two main levels of design and implementation of students' research activities – fundamental (theoretical and methodological) and applied (practical and technological). The conclusion is emphasized on the predominantly mixed nature of research in the social sphere, both quantitative and qualitative. It has been proved that it is necessary to develop and solve a holistic set of tasks for the design and implementation of qualitative and quantitative types of research in the social sphere. The authors place greater focus on the essence and the research mission of qualitative and quantitative types of research brought into use in the course of methodology and having branch peculiarities. The main differences between these types of research, both methodological and instrumental in nature, have been clarified. It is offered to apply four levels of tasks for students to perform during practical classes in the course “Methodology of scientific researches” – reproductive, partially exploratory, investigative and creative. Examples from the authoring database for each level are given. They outline the specifics of quantitative and qualitative research methods in the social field. This is exactly what comprehensively represent the complex of research methods and techniques used in the practical work of the social workers, and contribute to the growth of their methodological culture.