Characteristics of a Good Qualitative Researcher Example of feedback from participants at various workshops

What makes a good qualitative social researcher? Group 1 Puts entire body into it Not biased or dogmatic Good observer Good concentration Big ‘ears’, good listener, use probes Communicates well, open-ended communication Insightful Well-informed and interested Encouraging With heart, ethical, simple, personable and amicable, humble, empathetic, compassion Willing to join in as an equal Able to make people feel comfortable Writing, organisation, analytic skills Willing to travel, be an explorer Patient, willing to take time, serious effort

What makes a good qualitative social researcher? Group 2 Deep understanding of subject Empathise with issue or topic Consistent self-reflection, zero bias Participatory capacity Good knowledge of research design Good knowledge of culture, values and norms where research will take place Willing to triangulate Willing to use probing methods Have a sound theoretical understanding of subject

What makes a good qualitative social researcher? Group 3 Heart and brain should work together, use book Good listener, Make other person feel important Curious, try and pick up subtleties Inquisitive, ask probing questions at right time Flexible in ways of research Willing to be team player Able to build rapport, verbally plus body language Able to be someone known Not argumentative, not insisting on debate Non-judgemental in data collection and analysis Aware of own biases, as unbiased as possible: list Respect respondent and situation Observant, brave, determined (but not in a foolish way) Thoughtful, innovative, use other skills Empathetic, willing to learn at all stages Open-minded Prepared mentally (from literature etc.) Uses easy language

What makes a good qualitative social researcher? Group 4 Good listener People’s person Communication skills Sincere, integrity Ethical Commitment to the issue, involved Sensitiveness towards community respondents Inquisitive Unbiased, maintaining objectivity, articulate, good writing skills Diplomatic Able to accept mistakes and learn, and revisit the issue