Please Follow Directions And Answer All Questions Considered
Please Follow Directions And Answer All Questionsconsider The Followin
Please follow directions and answer all questions. Consider the following scenario: You have been asked to study patterns of homelessness for a homeless shelter in a large city. The city has a diverse multi-ethnic population. You are to collect general data and present your findings to the board of directors. In a 1-2 page paper, address the following: Will you use a qualitative or quantitative approach in collecting your data? (You can only choose one approach). Defend your approach and explain your reasons for using that model. Be specific. Give examples. Be sure to check your work for spelling and grammar errors. Use APA formatting.
Paper For Above instruction
The study of homelessness patterns in a large, ethnically diverse urban setting requires a carefully considered methodological approach. In selecting between qualitative and quantitative research methods, the decision hinges on the nature of the data sought and the objectives of the study. For this particular investigation, I would adopt a quantitative research approach, as it enables the collection of measurable, statistical data that can illuminate patterns and correlations within the homeless population, thus facilitating informed decision-making by the shelter's board of directors.
Quantitative research is characterized by its emphasis on numerical data and statistical analysis, which makes it particularly suitable for studying large populations and identifying trends. In the context of homelessness, this approach allows for the collection of data such as the number of homeless individuals, demographic breakdowns (age, gender, ethnicity), duration of homelessness, and patterns of service utilization. For example, by administering structured surveys or collecting administrative data, I could quantify the proportion of different ethnic groups within the homeless population, the average length of homelessness, and the frequency of shelter visits. These empirical measurements provide a clear, objective basis for understanding the scope and distribution of homelessness in the city.
The primary advantage of a quantitative approach in this scenario lies in its ability to yield generalizable findings. With robust statistical analysis, I can identify significant correlations—such as whether certain ethnic groups are more vulnerable to homelessness or if specific factors contribute to longer durations of homelessness. For instance, a survey might reveal that a higher percentage of Indigenous or minority populations experience extended periods of homelessness compared to the majority population. This data could inform targeted intervention strategies and resource allocation to address disparities effectively.
Furthermore, quantitative data can be easily communicated to stakeholders, including policymakers and funding agencies, through visual representations like charts and graphs. This clarity can support advocacy for increased funding or tailored programs that address the specific needs of diverse populations. Additionally, in a multi-ethnic setting, using numeric data helps to avoid biases and assumptions, providing a fairer basis for understanding the dynamics of homelessness across different communities.
Although qualitative data—such as personal narratives or ethnographic observations—can offer valuable insights into the lived experiences of homeless individuals, it is less suited for a broad, population-level analysis required by this project. Qualitative methods are generally more time-consuming, less easily generalizable, and harder to quantify, making them less practical for presenting comprehensive statistical trends to decision-makers.
In conclusion, a quantitative research approach is most appropriate for this study because it allows for the collection and analysis of objective, measurable data that can effectively highlight patterns within a large, diverse homeless population. Its ability to generate generalizable results, facilitate clear communication, and support data-driven decision-making makes it the optimal choice for informing strategies to address homelessness in a multi-ethnic city setting.
References
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