Kvalitatiivsed

Kvalitatiivsed is an Estonian adjective meaning qualitative, used to describe items related to quality or characteristics rather than quantity. In Estonian grammar, kvalitatiivne (singular) and kvalitatiivsed (plural) are used to modify nouns such as andmed (data), uuringud (studies), or omadused (characteristics). The opposite term is kvantitatiivne, meaning quantitative.

In research and analysis, kvalitatiivsed andmed refer to non-numeric data such as interview transcripts, field notes, focus group discussions, documents, and visual or audio material. Qualitative analysis aims to identify patterns, themes, meanings, and contextual influences rather than measure numeric variables. Common methods include thematic analysis, content analysis, discourse analysis, ethnography, and case studies. Sampling tends to be purposeful or theoretical rather than random, and smaller sample sizes are common, with emphasis on depth over breadth.

Kvalitatiivsed data are widely used across social sciences, education, health, design, and humanities, where understanding experiences, beliefs, motivations, and social processes is essential. The strengths of qualitative approaches include rich, contextual insights and flexibility; limitations involve subjectivity, potential biases, and limited generalizability to larger populations. Transparent documentation of data collection and analysis enhances credibility and transferability of findings.

Etymology and usage notes: the term derives from Latin qualitative, entering Estonian via European languages. It forms adjectives and associated nouns, and is commonly contrasted with kvantitatiivsed to distinguish qualitative from quantitative approaches, data, or properties.