Is the debate on quantitative versus qualitative research really necessary?

Recent writings suggest that educators have become locked in contentious arguments about types of research and about research methods when they might more productively concentrate upon the development of research confidence and a research culture in education. From this the rigorous and appropriate application of differing methodologies to achievement of research and policy goals and intentions will naturally follow. We need to look more closely at why the debate on qualitative versus quantitative research is seen to be meaningful, let alone necessary, and this takes us into the realms of wider social and political values and understandings. The article argues that the debate about methodologies reflects a confusion about intentions and purposes in educational research, especially with regard to policy needs and applications, and that what is needed now is a complete ‘upfront’ review of research goals and values in education, and in relation to other subject disciplines.