The methodology of qualitative studies is guided
By the broad qualitative research paradigm, as well as
by a specific philosophical base (see chapter 4)
Strategies for methods of sampling, data gathering
and analyses are not as tightly controlled as those of
the quantitative paradigm. Because data analysis
begins as date are gathered, insights from early data
my suggest fruitful methods of sampling, data
gathering or analyses that were not originally
planned. In qualitative studies, the researcher is free
to modify the original methodology based on
these insights.
This chapter allows you to understand the process and
to envision what the experience will be like if you
conduct a qualitative study. However, we suggest that
you seek additional sources of guidance for
understanding the philosophical base you plan to use.
as well as the process of collecting and analyzing
qualitative data developing a mentorship with
someone experienced in the type of qualitative
analysis you wish to perform is still the most useful
approach to learning these skills (Morse, 1997:
Sandelowski, 1997).
The step of the qualitative research process are
similar to those used in quantitative research, which
include reviewing the literature, developing a frame
work developing objectives or questions, and samling
aspects of qualitative studies are explored in the
chapters that focus on each of these topics. However,
researchers conducting a qualitative study use some
methods of data collection and analysis that are
unique to qualitative research and will be discussed in
this chapter. Other methods, similar to quantitative
methods are applied differently in qualitative studies.
Because data analysis occurs concumently with data
collection the researcher is attempting to
simultaneously
gather the data, manage a growing bulk of collected data,
and interpret the meaning of the data. Qualitative
analysis techniques use words rather than numbers as the
basis of analysis. However, qualitative researchers need
the same careful skills in analytical reasoning as those
needed for quantitative analysis. In qualitative analysis,
reasoning flows from concreteness to increasing
abstraction. This reasoning process guides the
organization, reduction, and clustering of the findings
and leads to theoretical explanations. Even though the
researcher may change data collection or analysis
strategies during the study, the process is not as
spontaneous and impulsive as one might think. The
procedures must be carefully planned.
This chapter begins with a description of some of the
frequently used approaches for collecting and analyzing
qualitative data. Next, research methodologies and
designs of specific approaches are presented. These
include phenomenology, grounded theory,
ethnographical methodology, historical research
methodology, philosophical studies, and critical social
theory methodology. The chapter ends with a discussion
of issues that are important to qualitative research:
theoretical frameworks for qualitative studies,
researcher- participant relationships, participatory
research, reflexivity, auditability, and appraisal of
qualitative studies.
DATA COLLECTION METHODS
Because data collection occurs simultaneously with data
analisys in qualitative studies. The process is complex
collecting data is not a mechanichal process that can be
completely planned before it is initiated.