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qualitative research definition
Origins of qualitative research
history, philosophy, anthropology, sociology and psychology
6 Characteristics of qualitative research
- non manipulative, open to what happen
- Purposeful sample: selection of the case study
- Importance of the context
- Uniqueness of the case
- Personal experience and engagement
- Qualitative data: detailed information
5 steps in qualitative research
- Identification of the phenomenon to be studied
- Identification of the participants in the study(purposive sample collection)
- Data collection(continual observance)
- data analysis (can use computer programs)
- Interpretation and conclusion
Data collection based on a set of topics to be discussed in depth through a conversation rather than based on the use of standardised questions
In-depth interviews
How long does a in-depth interview normally last, and where does it usually take place?
1,5-2 hrs, in the home of the respondent or a neutral place of their choice
Three steps that an interviewer should follow
- present yourself
- explain the main goals and advantages of the study
- Confidentiality and anonymity
A research method where investigators systematically observe people while joining in their routine activities
Participatory observation
Study that focuses on detailed and accurate description rather than explenation
Ethnography
A research where the investigator is observing, but not taking part in the group
Non-participant observation
Used participatory observation to study gangs
Venkatesh
What is the method of Michael Welsch used to study YouTube accounts?
Virtual ethnography
Uses ethnographic techniques for inquiry into cyberspace
Virtual ethnography
A group of subject interviewed together, prompting a discussion
Focus group
The researcher’s function is to serve asa resource to those being studied- typically disadvantaged groups- as an opportunity for them to act effectively in their own interest. They define their problems, the remedies desired and take the lead in designing the research that will help them realize their aims
Participatory action research
The in-depth examination(intensive description and analysis) of a single instance of some social phenomenon such as a person, organization or event: village or family
Case study research
Analysis consideration of qualitative research
Frequency and intensity of comments
Context and words
a meticoulus analysis of the details of conversation, based on complete transcript including pauses
Conversation analysis
7 stages of analysis
- Familiarization with the data through review, reading, listening
- Transcription of tape recorded material
- Organization of the data for easy retrieval and identification, anonymize sensitive data and names
- Coding: classifying or categorizing individual pieces of data
- Identification of themes/categories
- Findings
- Present the study
strengths of qualitative research
- good for examining feeling and emotions
- examine processes over time
- Allows for complexity and depth in the issue
- Flexibility
- Less expensive than quantitative research
Weaknesses of qualitative research
- Not presentative/generalizeable of the population
- Big volume of the data that is difficult to analyze
- Time-consuming
- can be very subjective
