Qualitative

A qualitative study:

Is a research method used primarily in the social sciences to gather an in-depth understanding of human behavior, experiences, attitudes, and interactions. Here are some key characteristics and steps involved in conducting a qualitative study.

Common Methods:

Ethnography: Immersive observation and participation in the daily life of participants to understand their culture and practices.

Steps in Conducting a Qualitative Study:

Research Question: Formulate a clear and focused research question that guides the study.

Literature Review: Review existing literature to understand the context and background of the research topic.

Methodology: Choose an appropriate qualitative methodology and methods for data collection.

Data Collection: Gather data using chosen methods (interviews, focus groups, observations, etc.).

Data Analysis: Analyze data using techniques such as coding, thematic analysis, or narrative analysis to identify patterns and themes.

Increase the Quality of Qualitative Study:

In qualitative research, ensuring the quality and rigor of the study is paramount. Various tools and techniques can be used to enhance the credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability of qualitative research. Here are some key quality tools and techniques for qualitative research:

1. Credibility (Internal Validity)

Member Checking:

• Involves sharing findings with participants to ensure accuracy and resonance with their experiences.

• Tools: Follow-up interviews, feedback sessions.

Triangulation:

• Using multiple data sources, methods, investigators, or theories to cross-verify findings.

• Tools: Combining interviews, observations, and document analysis.

2. Dependability (Reliability)

Audit Trail:

• Keeping detailed records of the research process, including raw data, field notes, and decision-making processes.

• Tools: Research diaries, logs, and documentation of data analysis steps.

Code-Recode Strategy:

• Coding the same data twice at different times and comparing the results to ensure consistency.

• Tools: Coding software like NVivo, MAXQDA.

Dependability Audit:

• Having an external researcher review the audit trail and evaluate the consistency of the study’s findings.

• Tools: Audit reports, external reviews.

3. Transferability (External Validity)

Thick Description:

• Providing detailed, contextualized descriptions of the research setting, participants, and findings.

• Tools: Comprehensive field notes, rich narrative descriptions.

Purposive Sampling:

• Selecting participants and settings that are particularly relevant to the research question.

• Tools: Sampling frameworks, inclusion criteria.

4. Confirmability (Objectivity)

Reflexivity:

• Reflecting on the researcher’s own biases, assumptions, and influence on the research process.

• Tools: Reflexive journals, memos.

Confirmability Audit:

• Similar to the dependability audit, but focusing on the neutrality of the research findings.

• Tools: Audit trails, external confirmability reviews.

5. Quality Frameworks and Guidelines

CAQDAS (Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software):

• Guidelines and best practices for using software tools to enhance qualitative research quality.

COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research):

• Checklist for reporting qualitative research, ensuring comprehensive and transparent reporting.

QSR International:

• Provider of qualitative research software and resources for best practices in qualitative research.