Qualitative Research

Description:

Studies that investigate the quality of relationships, activities, situations, or materials. There is a greater emphasis on holistic description of a particular activity, behavior, or situation.

Major Characteristics of Qualitative Research:

1. Naturalistic inquiry

2. Inductive analysis

3. Holistic perspective

4. Data are words and/or pictures

5. Personal contact and insight

6. Dynamic systems

7. Unique case orientation

8. Context sensitive

9. Empathic neutrality

10. Design flexibility

Reference
Patton, M. Q. (1990). Qualitative evaluation and research methods (2nd
edition). Newbury Park, CA: Sage.

Types of Qualitative Research

Ethnography Study:
The collection of data on many variables over an extended period of time in a naturalistic setting, usually with observation and interviews.

Case Study:
An in depth investigation of an individual, group, or institution to determine the variables, and relationship among the variables, influencing the current status or behavior of the subject of the study.

Content Analysis:
Inductively establishing a categorical system for organizing open-ended information. Analyzing written or visual contents of a document.

Reference
Fraenkel, J. R. & Wallen, N. E. (1993). How to design and evaluate research
in education (2nd edition). New York: McGraw-Hill.