Qualitative research is the importance of the observations made in a study rather than the raw numbers themselves (Quantitative Research, 2014). It is most commonly the survey method which may include interviews and case studies. Qualitative research is also used in a historical and ethnographic context, when trying to find out what happened and what is happening (Quantitative Research, 2014). Qualitative research is useful for practitioners because it allows the researcher to establish a connection with clients, as the practitioner gains internal insight. By allowing the practitioner an internal view, this can open up dynamic relationships and processes that might otherwise be missed (Hughes, C, 2006). For example, by researching a client's story through interviews and case studies, a practitioner could gain a deeper understanding of the client's past history and relationships that may directly relate to their case, which a quantitative research method would not provide. Data such as this would be collected from an oral or written description, with the professional interpreting the data once collected. Qualitative research is also useful in determining what is currently happening, for example by using case studies to provide analysis of current trends in the field of social work (Hughes, C, 2006). However, qualitative research has its limitations. Qualitative research takes much longer than quantitative research, due to the nature of the research. The professional's presence on the client is felt more and more time is needed on the client's part. There is the potential risk of confidentiality even when discussing results (Hughes, C. 2006). Another limitation that must be considered is that when carrying out qualitative research...... halfway through the article ......n, K., Guest, G., Namey, E. 2005). While quantitative research seeks to prove hypotheses, qualitative research explores an idea. While quantitative research seeks to predict relationships, qualitative research explains relationships. While quantitative research uses closed-ended questions, qualitative research uses open-ended questions. Quantitative research is rigid and stable, while qualitative research can be modified as new information is collected (Mack, N., Woodsong, C., MacQueen, K., Guest, G., Namey, E. 2005). Since the key difference is the amount of flexibility, qualitative research would be the best methodology to explore and discover new research on your chosen research topic. In the case of a literature review, quantitative methodology is the ideal method to explore existing data, so that the need to explore new data can be assessed.