Abstract
Researchers in music education tend to rely on either qualitative or quantitative modes of inquiry. Although scholars are likely to choose one paradigm over the other, no study is purely qualitative or quantitative. To illustrate this point, we aimed to contextualize and discuss both qualitative and quantitative research within a common framework. We then conducted a comparative analysis of a qualitative and a quantitative research approach-grounded theory and structural equation modeling-along a set of philosophical and methodological continua. We showed that grounded theory and structural equation modeling follow a similar overarching research process while integrating both qualitative and quantitative components. Our analysis served as an example to contemplate nuances within research practices and identify similarities between qualitative and quantitative studies. Drawing on this analysis, we highlighted the importance of developing a common research framework in research and education research within the context of music education.