Which of the following statements about research data is correct?

• A. Quantitative data is always more important than qualitative data in research.
• B. Qualitative data cannot be visualized using any graphical methods.
• C. Most research generates only quantitative data.
• D. Research can generate both qualitative and quantitative data depending on the study design.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between qualitative and quantitative data: Qualitative data refers to non-numerical information such as descriptions, themes, or categories, while quantitative data refers to numerical measurements or counts.
2. Recognize that research studies can generate different types of data depending on their design and objectives; some studies collect only quantitative data, some only qualitative, and many collect both.
3. Evaluate the given statements by comparing them to these definitions and common research practices. For example, qualitative data can indeed be visualized using methods like bar charts, word clouds, or thematic maps, so the statement denying this is incorrect.
4. Note that the importance of data types depends on the research question and context, so saying one type is always more important than the other is not accurate.
5. Conclude that the correct statement is the one acknowledging that research can generate both qualitative and quantitative data depending on the study design.