Characteristics of Qualitative Research EDRS 6301-05 Dr. Kielborn Summer 2001

Interpretative research Field study Case study Participant observation Qualitative Research is an umbrella covering several forms of inquiry that help us understand and explain the meaning of social phenomena with as little disruption to the natural setting as possible. Naturalistic inquiry Interpretative research Field study Case study Participant observation Inductive research Ethnography

Qualitative Researchers Qualitative researchers are interested in understanding the meaning people have constructed. It is assumed that meaning is mediated through the investigator’s own perceptions.

Qualitative research is an effort to understand situations in their uniqueness as part of a particular context and the interactions there (Patton, 1985).

A second characteristic of all forms of qualitative research is that the researcher is the primary instrument for data collection and analysis.

A third characteristic of qualitative research is that it usually involves fieldwork. The researcher must go to the people, setting, site, institution, in order to observe behavior in its natural setting.

A fourth characteristic of qualitative research is that is uses an inductive research strategy. This type of research builds abstractions, concepts, hypothesis, or theories rather than tests existing theory.

Typically qualitative findings are in the form of themes, categories, concepts or tentative hypotheses or theories. The product of a qualitative study is richly descriptive.

Ethics Revisited The subjects’ identities should be protected so that the information you collect does not embarrass or harm them. Treat subjects with respect and seek their cooperation in the research.

Ethics Revisited Make it clear to the participants in the study what the terms of the agreement (consent form) are and abide by that. Tell the truth when you write up your final report.