Qualitative Research Approaches and Validities

A series of flashcards summarizing key terms and concepts related to qualitative research methodologies and their associated validities.

Ethnography

A qualitative research approach involving immersion in a culture or community to observe social norms, behaviors, and cultural practices.

Grounded Theory

A methodology that involves collecting data to construct theories based on codified procedures, focusing on common themes, codes, and categories.

Case Study

An in-depth exploration of a single case or a few cases within their real-life context, utilizing multiple sources for a deep dive analysis.

Phenomenology

A qualitative approach that seeks to understand the meaning of lived experiences from the perspective of individuals who have experienced them.

Narrative Analysis

A method that examines how conversations are structured and how language shapes social reality, often used in understanding personal experiences.

Action-Oriented Research

Research aimed not only at understanding but also at shaping and changing the world through community-based participatory methods.

Credibility

The degree to which the research findings genuinely represent the participants and instill confidence in the truth of the findings.

Transferability

The extent to which research findings can be applied in other contexts, often supported by rich, detailed descriptions.

Dependability

The consistency of research findings over time, demonstrated through thorough documentation of research decisions and processes.

Confirmability

A degree of neutrality in research findings, ensuring they are shaped by participant responses rather than researcher bias.

Triangulation

Using multiple sources, methods, or researchers to cross-check findings and reduce bias in qualitative research.

Member Checking

A process where participants review preliminary findings to ensure they accurately reflect their experiences, enhancing credibility.

Thick Description

Providing rich, detailed contextual information to help readers assess the applicability of the findings in other settings.

Audit Trail

Keeping detailed records of research decisions and data processes for transparency and to justify study choices.

Reflexivity

The practice of recognizing and reflecting on the researcher's biases and how they may influence the study.

Prolonged Engagement

Spending an adequate amount of time in the research setting to build trust and gain deeper insights from participants.

Peer Debriefing

Sharing findings with colleagues for critical feedback to refine interpretations and prevent oversights.

Negative Case Analysis

The deliberate search for data that contradicts emerging themes to ensure a nuanced understanding of the data.

Focus Groups

Guided discussions among a small number of participants to explore shared experiences and generate new insights.

Moderator

The individual who guides a focus group discussion, aiming for minimal dominance while encouraging participation.

Ethical Oversights

Mistakes in research design which can lead to compromising the confidentiality and respect of participants.

Common Pitfalls

Mistakes such as over-structuring, poorly worded probes, and ignoring context that can undermine qualitative research quality.