Describe qualitative research and its evolution

Welcome researchers! As we delve deeper into the realm of research, this section focuses specifically on the captivating world of Qualitative Methods. Here, we'll explore how qualitative research helps us understand the "why" and "how" behind human experiences, complementing the data-driven approach of quantitative research.

Did you know that the term qualitative research is a general definition? It includes many different methods used in understanding and explaining social phenomena with minimum interference of the natural environment. Here are some definitions for qualitative research:

(a)        According to Denzin and Lincoln (1994), qualitative research focuses on interpretation of phenomena in their natural settings to make sense of the meanings people bring to these settings. Qualitative research involves collecting information on personal experiences and significant moments in peoples’ lives through introspections, life stories, interviews, observations, historical interactions and visual texts.

(b)        Patton (2002) defined qualitative research as attempting to understand the unique interactions in a particular situation. The purpose of understanding is not necessarily to predict what might occur, but rather to understand in depth the characteristics of the situation and the meaning brought by participants as well as what is happening to them at the moment. The aim of qualitative research is to truthfully present findings to others who are interested in what you are doing.

(c)     According to Pope and May (1995), qualitative researchers study things in their natural settings in an effort to discover the meanings seen by those who are being researched rather than that of the researcher.

Qualitative research begins by accepting that there are many different ways of understanding and of making sense of the world. You are not attempting to predict what may happen in the future. You want to understand the people in that setting. “What are their lives like? What is going on for them? What beliefs do they hold about the world?” In short, qualitative research is concerned with the social aspects of our world and seeks to find answers to the following questions:

(a)        Why do people behave the way they do?

(b)        How are opinions and attitudes formed?

(c)         How are people affected by the events that go on around them?

(d)        How and why have cultures developed in the way they have?

(e)        What are the differences between social groups?

You will also learn the evolution of qualitative research and differences between quantitative and qualitative research. Last but not least, four methods of qualitative research will be introduced to you – ethnography, case study, action research and generic qualitative methods. Are you ready to discover more about qualitative research? Let us continue the lesson!

Firstly, let us look at the evolution of qualitative research. Did you know that back in the 1950s and 1960s, research in education was very much influenced by the behavioristic perspective?

Lets watch this video.