Example Of Qualitative Methods

My research this week focuses on qualitative methods of research, (Creswell, 2014). The qualitative method addresses the narrative of the study, telling the story by describing life experiences, (Creswell, 2014). In a qualitative study it is important for the researcher to develop the study based on the participant’s perspectives, their issues or problems, (Creswell, 2014). The researcher should conduct interviews that are based on open-ended questions to illicit an unprovoked response, (Creswell, 2014). This will ensure that the study is not is derived from the researchers perception of the problem. According the author, there are four methods of acquiring data using the qualitative method to include interviews, observation, documentation …show more content…
The qualitative method explains the story, proving information in text and pictures, (Creswell, 2014). This research method is usually conducted in a field setting versus a lab, (Creswell, 2014). Information or data is collected through interviews conducted face to face with minimal use of a survey instrument, (Creswell, 2014). The data is captured from interviews, observations and audio video means, (Creswell, 2014). The data collected from observations is focused on studying participant’s behavior. Inductive thinking is the predominant approach in the qualitative method, therefore establishing a pattern that works from the bottom up, (Creswell, 2014). The author has noted that qualitative researcher will use deductive reasoning, which is commonly used in quantitative methods, (Creswell, 2014). For the researcher, using a qualitative approach will focus on the participants perspective regarding a problem or specific issue versus the researchers meaning of a problem, (Creswell, 2014). The process is noted as emergent, which refers to the ongoing development of the study as it shifts from one phase to another, (Creswell, 2014). Creswell, (2014) notes that the idea behind a qualitative study is to gain an understanding of the participant’s problem and develop the study by researching that issue, (Creswell, 2014). Reflectivity refers to the researchers reflections on the study based on their …show more content…
If a backyard approach is utilized, where the researcher utilizes friends and co-workers as participants in the study, the validity of the study could be compromised, (Creswell, 2014). The data collected could easily be tainted, therefore the study is invalid. This method of research is convenient, but can easily lead to a compromised study, (Creswell, 2014). The author notes that if this method is used the researcher is obligated to list how this application could be corrupted, (Creswell, 2014). The researcher will need to adhere to the required steps of obtaining permission, thus minimizing the potential for violating human rights, (Creswell, 2014). The researcher will also need cooperation from the gatekeepers, which is noted as the persons that are in control of the required resources such as the environment in which the study will be conducted, (Creswell, 2014). It might be necessary for the researcher to devise a proposal, highlighting the reason for the study and what is to be gained, (Creswell, 2014). The process for collecting data identifies the need for the researcher to use research sites that are conducive to the study, (Creswell, 2014). The researcher will need to decide if only one site will be used or several sites, this decision also applies to the participants, (Creswell,