Qualitative and Quantitative Data

This course provides an introduction to quantitative and qualitative data and how using these two distinct types of data can support early intervention and early childhood special education staff in their work. The course begins by describing some of the many ways data can be useful to IDEA early childhood programs. It then defines quantitative and qualitative data, describing the different types of questions they answer and their different sources. The course includes an example of how quantitative and qualitative data can be used together to answer critical questions about a state program.

Learning Objectives

Participants will

1. learn about reasons to collect and use data.
2. understand what quantitative data and qualitative data are, how they are different, and how they can be used together to answer critical questions.
3. view an example analysis using both types of data to answer questions a state agency might have about the children it serves.

Data Leadership Competencies addressed by this content

• FD-1. Demonstrates basic data literacy skills.
• FD-5. Is knowledgeable about various methods for collecting data, including quantitative and qualitative methods, when to use various methods, and the advantages and limitations of such methods with different groups of respondents, especially those from historically underserved groups.

Resources

Qualitative Data Analysis Methods 101
An overview of qualitative data and various approaches to qualitative data analysis.

Quantitative Data Analysis Methods 101
An overview of quantitative data and various approaches to quantitative data analysis

DaSy Data Visualization Toolkit
A comprehensive set of tips and strategies for presenting data in effective and meaningful ways.

Published February 2024.