qualitative and quantitative methods - Need help on a thesis statement

Hi. This is my first researh paper I have ever done. My topic I have to write on is "Both qualitative and quantitative methods are used when conducting research. Explain the differences between the two methods and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Which method would you prefer to use?" I just don't know where to start. I need to hand in an outline for my essay along with with my introductory pragraph. In my introductory paragraph should include a topic sentance (thesis), catch the reader's interst, and give a brief outline of what arguments/points I will make in my paper. I am so lost and confused on where to begin and what to put in this paragraph. I have also never ever done a thesis statement. Can you help?

The purpose of this research project is to explore the ways in which fear of terrorism has changed the way college students think of airline travel. The researcher will use qualitative methods, because she is interested in learning about the subjective opinions of the people involved.

The above is just something I cam up with to help you. Qualitative research is focused on understanding people's opinions and views, whereas quantitative research deals with numbers, quantities... and produces statistics. Qualitative is more fun. That is just my opinion.

Use the format above to get started. Check this out:

http://www.vchri.ca/i/presentations/QualitativeProposals/sld 001.htm

Choose a thesis statement that can be tested. In qualitative work, sometimes the thesis can take the form of a question. Try googling "qualitative" and "sample" together to find a qualitative study to read.