Introduction OK, you are thinking about your topic, refining your research question, fixing on a theoretical perspective, and considering the type of data that might lead to an answer to your question. The next question you will want to ask what methods are there to get the data I need to answer my question? This … Read more
Introduction Up to this point, we have been setting up your research project so that it sits on solid foundations with sound theory and methodology. With that robust starting point, you collected the data that you believe will be needed from appropriate sources. The raw data will not really solve your problem although it may … Read more
Introduction Data are, at their most basic, bits of information, any information. In any research, data is the raw material. It is what we gather to support or refute propositions. We use it to ground new theories or challenge old ones. In qualitative research, it is anything that carries meaning or can be interpreted to … Read more
Introduction Why do I need theory? What is the point of having a theory? More immediately, where do I get one from? These questions are the ones many researchers new to the qualitative space struggle with the most. Fundamentally, why are qualitative researchers asked to ‘choose a theory?’ Let’s explore these questions in order. Why … Read more
Introduction In the first part we unpacked several definitions of qualitative research. We saw a number of ideas that set this style of research apart from quantitative research. In this post we will have a closer look at four key features: Social/relational Context Words Narrower and Deeper Social/relational Human relationships and … Read more
Introduction Examining some definitions from the literature is our first step in trying to answer the ‘what is qualitative research’ question. We will then expand on each and draw out some of the key thoughts. Definitions The first definition comes from Strauss & Corbin: ‘… any kind of research that produces findings not arrived at … Read more
Not surprisingly, answering the question ‘what is qualitative research’ is not quite that simple. It is not a matter of a few quick sentences and you are ok. Like quantitative and mixed method approaches, there are many layers and aspects. This series of posts will look at key aspects of qualitative research to help you … Read more