Describe briefly the difference between quantitative and qualitative research

Quantitative data includes close-ended information such as that found to measure attitudes, behaviors and performance instruments. The analysis of this type of data consists of statistically analyzing scores collected on instruments (e.g., questionnaires) or checklists to answer research questions or to test hypotheses.
Quantitative researchers aim to establish general laws of behavior and phenomenon across different contexts. 

Qualitative data consists of open-ended information that the researcher usually gathers through interviews, focus groups and observations. The analysis of the qualitative data typically follows the path of aggregating it into categories of information and presenting the diversity of ideas gathered during data collection.
The aim of qualitative research is to understand the social reality of individuals, groups and cultures as nearly as possible as its participants feel it or live it.