1- Discussion Question: Suppose you are going to conduct a study utilizing Qualitative Research Design: which type of research would you use, and which method would you utilize to collect data and select your sample. 2- 3 paragraphs 3 sentences each 3- APA style 4- 2 references not older than 2015
Qualitative research is a valuable approach for investigating complex phenomena and capturing the subjective experiences of individuals. When choosing a type of qualitative research design, it is important to consider the research question, the nature of the phenomenon being studied, and the resources and time available for the study. In this discussion, I will examine the different types of qualitative research designs and discuss the most appropriate method for data collection and sample selection.
One type of qualitative research design is phenomenology, which seeks to understand the essence and meaning of a particular phenomenon as experienced by individuals. Phenomenology allows researchers to delve into the subjective experiences, perspectives, and interpretations of participants. This design is useful when exploring topics such as the lived experiences of individuals with a specific condition or the meaning of a particular event or phenomenon. By utilizing phenomenology, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the lived experiences and perspectives of individuals.
Another type of qualitative research design is grounded theory, which aims to develop a theory or conceptual framework grounded in the data collected from participants. Grounded theory is commonly employed when the research focus is on exploring social processes, interactions, and relationships. This design enables researchers to generate theories that emerge from the data, uncovering new insights and understanding of social phenomena. Grounded theory is particularly suitable for examining complex social phenomena and generating hypotheses or theoretical frameworks.
In terms of selecting a method for data collection, interviews and focus groups are commonly used in qualitative research. Semi-structured or unstructured interviews allow researchers to have in-depth conversations with participants, allowing for a more comprehensive exploration of their experiences, views, and perspectives. Interviews also provide opportunities for probing and clarifying responses. Focus groups, on the other hand, involve group discussions moderated by a researcher, allowing for the exploration of shared experiences and perspectives among participants. This method is advantageous for exploring group dynamics, collective beliefs, and social interactions.
The choice between interviews and focus groups depends on the research question and the nature of the phenomenon being studied. Interviews may be more appropriate when exploring personal and sensitive topics, as participants may feel more comfortable sharing their experiences individually rather than in a group setting. On the other hand, focus groups are beneficial when exploring topics that involve group dynamics or social interactions, as participants can build upon and challenge each other’s ideas in the group setting.
Regarding sample selection, qualitative research often utilizes purposive sampling to select participants who are knowledgeable and have experienced the phenomenon of interest. This approach aims to select participants who can provide rich and comprehensive data to address the research question. Researchers may employ various strategies within purposive sampling, such as maximum variation sampling (selecting participants from diverse backgrounds) or homogenous sampling (selecting participants with similar characteristics or experiences). The specific sampling strategy will depend on the research question and the desired depth and breadth of the data.
In conclusion, when conducting a study utilizing qualitative research design, it is essential to carefully consider the type of research design, the method of data collection, and the sample selection. Phenomenology is suitable for exploring subjective experiences, while grounded theory is valuable for developing theories grounded in empirical data. Interviews and focus groups are commonly used for data collection, with interviews being more suitable for personal and sensitive topics, and focus groups for exploring group dynamics. Purposive sampling is often employed to select participants who can provide rich and comprehensive data. By considering these factors, researchers can ensure the appropriateness and rigor of their study design and data collection methods.
References:
1. Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. Sage Publications.
2. Patton, M. Q.. (2015). Qualitative research & evaluation methods: Integrating theory and practice. Sage Publications.