Qualitative

Qualitative refers to a type of research methodology that focuses on understanding phenomena from a subjective, humanistic perspective. It is often contrasted with quantitative research, which seeks to quantify data and apply statistical analysis.

Overview

Qualitative research is primarily exploratory research used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations. It provides insights into the problem or helps to develop ideas or hypotheses for potential quantitative research. Qualitative research is also used to uncover trends in thought and opinions, and dive deeper into the problem.

Methods

Qualitative research methods include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Interviews: One-on-one conversations between the researcher and the subject.
• Focus Groups: Discussions led by a moderator among a small group of participants.
• Observation: Direct or indirect observation of behaviors in their natural setting.
• Case Studies: Detailed analysis of a single (or limited number) of people or events.
• Ethnography: Study of people and cultures, usually through observation.

Data Analysis

In qualitative research, data analysis often involves identifying patterns or themes in the data. This can be done through various methods, such as content analysis, discourse analysis, or grounded theory.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Qualitative research has several strengths, such as its ability to provide rich, detailed data on a small number of individuals or situations. It can also capture the complexity of human behavior and experience. However, it also has several weaknesses, such as the potential for researcher bias and the difficulty of generalizing findings to a larger population.

See Also

• Quantitative Research
• Mixed Methods Research
• Research Design
• Social Science Research