Generalizability in QUALITATIVE research

Discuss the possibility of generalizing the findings of the study

Representational generalizability

Findings can be applied to the population from which the sample was drawn.

Ex. look at sample during specific times and in specific places

Inferential generalizability/transferability

Findings can be applied to other populations. The researcher's context is important to consider. When discussing this, we should identify important variables in order to apply it to another population.

Ex. look at location, socioeconomic status, age, cultural dimensions etc

Theoretical generalization

Theoretical concepts derived from the study can be used to develop further theory.

Ex. application to other contexts

What to consider when answering?

• Explain any sampling bias in the study

• Think about how the sampling techniques may affect the ability to generalize

• Consider which variables would need to be the same in a similar situation in order to say that their results could be transferred to that situation

• Think about what might make the setting or study unique – and therefore difficult to transfer

• Think about applying the findings in different contexts