Identify the components required to setup a Qualitative study

Welcome researchers! This module delves into the heart of research practice, guiding you through the process of transforming raw information into valuable knowledge. We'll explore the essential steps from Data Collection and Analysis to Interpreting Findings and ensuring the Validity and Reliability of your research.

In our previous topic, we have discussed the four main methods of qualitative research commonly adopted in research, namely, ethnography, case study, action research and the generic qualitative method. Irrespective of the research method adopted, the techniques of data collection are more or less similar.

Now in this topic, we will discuss in detail three common data collection or evidence-gathering techniques employed in qualitative research. For example, the experimental method in quantitative research uses tests or attitude scales to collect data. Similarly, the survey method use questionnaires and interview checklists to collect data. So for ethnographies or case studies, the data collection techniques could involve observations, interviews or examining documents, or a combination of three techniques. These are the focus of this new topic. Let us continue the lesson!

Firstly, what does content analysis mean?

Content analysis is a technique for analysing the content of documents that are in the form of words, phrases, sentences, paragraphs, pictures, symbols or ideas.

Content analysis is widely used by law enforcement agencies to analyse e-mails, letters and telephone conversations. Content analysis can be done both quantitatively, as well as, qualitatively. Very often researchers use computer programs to assist in analysis. Most content analysis has been aimed at answering questions directly relating to the materials analysed. For example, content analysis of student essays can provide information on grammatical and spelling errors which may be applied in the development of remedial programmes.

 

A content analysis of textbooks can tell us such things as topics covered, emphasis in each topic, sequence of topics and so forth. Other areas that have been studied using content analysis include the treatment of women and minorities in textbooks, newspapers, literature and television, the communication taking place in the classroom and so on.

Now, what does observation mean? Do you have any idea?

Observation is the technique of obtaining data through direct contact with a person or a group of persons.

Since the main focus of qualitative research is naturalism; the researcher has to observe the person or persons in their natural state, as undisturbed as possible (Christians & Carey, 1989; Smith, 1987). The role of the researcher may be viewed as a continuum.

On one extreme, the researcher is a passive observer and on the other extreme
the researcher is a participant observer. In between these two extremes, the researcher may be an active observer (Potter, 1996).

Now, let’s watch a video about Passive observer and Participant observer.