Quantitative research involves systematic empirical investigation of social phenomena using statistical, mathematical or computational methods to develop and test hypotheses. It aims to provide objective measurements and generalize results to larger populations. In contrast, qualitative research asks broad questions and collects narrative data from participants to develop an in-depth understanding of human behavior and the reasons behind it. It examines topics and patterns specific to a particular group rather than making generalized claims. Both quantitative and qualitative methods are used in social sciences, but quantitative methods rely more on empirical data and statistics while qualitative focuses more on understanding perspectives.