Three types of communication research methods: Quantitative, qualitative, and participatory

Abstract

This chapter presents a brief overview of the three types of communication research methods being applied in development communication settings: quantitative, qualitative, and participatory. This chapter attempts to outline the relative characteristics and merits of these approaches to research and to emphasize some of the philosophical issues which underpin them. It discusses the strengths and weaknesses of each and highlights the benefits of a more normative approach focused on the “poor” in society.