Page 1: Introduction

Overview of Lecture

• Course Code: PS20310

• Date: 28th January 2025

• Topic: Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods

• Instructor: Dr. Antonia Ivaldi

Page 2: Lecture Overview

Topics Discussed

• Introduction to module

• Reasons for conducting qualitative research

• Key terms in qualitative research

• Theoretical assumptions

• Designing research questions

• Timetable

• Assignment project

Page 3: Learning Outcomes

1. Communicate knowledge of qualitative research theory in a report.

2. Apply qualitative methods to design and collect data informed by literature.

3. Select and conduct analysis methods using NVivo.

4. Conduct research ethically at all stages.

5. Apply quality criteria for qualitative research and maintain reflexive awareness.

Page 4: Importance of the Module

Significance

• Essential preparation for dissertation

• Key skills desired by employers

• Helps shape dissertation direction

• Last lab report before dissertation

Page 5: Why Conduct Qualitative Research?

Purpose of Qualitative Research

• Discuss the significance of qualitative research methodologies.

Page 6: Key Terms in Qualitative Research

• Inductive: Theory development from data.

• Phenomenology: Individual perception of events.

• Idiographic: In-depth individual studies.

• Social Constructionism: Knowledge as constructed through interaction.

• Reflexivity: Researcher’s influence on research outcomes.

Page 7: Theoretical Assumptions I

Realism vs. Relativism

• Realism: Represents an objective reality (rejected by qualitative researchers).

• Relativism: Acknowledges multiple constructed realities (rejected by quantitative researchers).

Page 8: Theoretical Assumptions II

Ontology and Epistemology

• Ontology: Beliefs about reality.

  • Quantitative: One objective reality.

  • Qualitative: Multiple constructed realities.

• Epistemology: Knowledge acquisition perspectives.

  • Realism: Knowledge is separate from perspective.

  • Relativism: Knowledge reflects perspectives.

Page 9: Key Differences in Qualitative Research

Page 10: Meaning, Experience, and Language

Phenomenology

• Access inner states via spoken perspectives.

• Methods include IPA, thematic analysis, narrative.

Language Influence

• Language shapes our thoughts and worldviews.

• Interest in language used to understand the world.

• Methods include discourse analysis, conversation analysis.

Page 11: Designing Research Questions

Research Methodology

• Research questions replace hypotheses in qualitative studies.

• Must be grounded in existing literature.

• Questions are exploratory and flexible but focused.

• Use ‘What’ or ‘How’ for qualitative questions.

• Questions may evolve during research.

Page 12: Timetable

Page 13: Assessment

Assessment Criteria

• 2,500 word qualitative report.Key aspects assessed:

1. Research question appropriateness

2. Chosen qualitative method

3. Ethical considerations

4. Design of interview guide

5. Conducted interview

6. Interview transcription

7. Analysis of 4 interviews

8. Complete qualitative report write-up

Page 14: Choosing Your Topic

Suggested Topics

• Importance of music in everyday life

• Experiences of travel

• Engaging with nature and outdoors

Page 15: Ensuring a Smooth Experience

Student Responsibilities

• Read provided materials thoroughly.

• Adhere to the timetable.

• Attend and contribute regularly.

• Report factors affecting attendance/engagement.

• Maintain focus and engagement.

Page 16: References

• Coolican, H. (2007). Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology. London: Hodder Education.

• Sullivan, C. (2010). Theory and Method in Qualitative Research. In M.A. Forrester (ed.), Doing Qualitative Research in Psychology (pp. 15-38). London: Sage.