Social Research Methods - Chapter 9

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts from the lecture on qualitative research methods.

Qualitative Research

Research primarily concerned with words and images rather than numbers, often inductive and interpretivist.

Inductive Process

An approach where concepts and theories are developed as they emerge during data collection.

Ethnography

A qualitative research method involving immersion in the social setting.

Grounded Theory

An approach where data is used to develop theories, often involving an iterative process.

Trustworthiness

Criteria for evaluating qualitative research that includes credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability.

Credibility

The degree to which the people studied agree with the researcher's interpretations.

Transferability

The applicability of research findings to other contexts or groups.

Dependability

Ensuring proper procedures are followed in the research study.

Confirmability

The extent to which research findings are shaped by the participants rather than the researcher.

Process Emphasis

A focus on showing how events and patterns unfold over time in qualitative research.

Flexibility in Qualitative Research

The adaptability of research questions and topics as the study progresses.

Critiques of Qualitative Research

Includes issues of subjectivity, replication difficulties, and lack of transparency in research methods.

Contrast between Qualitative and Quantitative Research

Qualitative research focuses on meaning and context, while quantitative research emphasizes numerical data and generalizable findings.

Naturalism

An approach in qualitative research that seeks to observe subjects in their own environments without disturbance.

Interpretivist Perspective

An orientation in qualitative research focused on understanding the meanings of actions and events to participants.

Participatory Action Research

A method that engages participants to actively contribute to social change.