WEEK 8 QUALITATIVE 1

Weekly Learning Outcomes

  • Understand basic qualitative research paradigms.
  • Perform qualitative data collection and analysis using a phenomenological approach.
  • Recognize the role of qualitative research in patient-centered care preparation.

Qualitative Research Overview

  • Definition: Qualitative research provides insights into the how and why of human experiences, beliefs, behaviors, cultures, systems, and structures using empirical materials like words and images.
  • Goals: To answer descriptive research questions, exploring the depth of experiences.

Paradigms in Qualitative Research

  • Positivist Paradigm (Quantitative):

    • Assumes a single, tangible reality exists.
    • Finds truth by minimizing bias.
    • Emphasizes measuring and identifying reality:
    • Study findings are seen as objective truth.

  • Interpretivist Paradigm (Qualitative):

    • Rejects the notion of a single truth.
    • Acknowledges the influence of social constructs such as language, culture, and history.
    • Researchers co-construct knowledge with participants, understanding that their perspectives shape the findings.

Hat Wearing Activity

  • Exercise: Split into two groups to discuss given topics through interpretivist and positivist perspectives.
  • Possible topics include:
    • Daily experiences, existence, and concepts like overpopulation.

Conducting a Qualitative Study

  1. Research Aim: Understand the lived experiences of first-year university students.
  2. Methodology: Choose an appropriate methodology that aligns with your aim (e.g., phenomenology).
  3. Data Collection:
    • Use semi-structured interviews with main questions and prompts.
    • Address ethical considerations during introduction: identify the researcher and study purpose, confirm participant consent.

Roles in a Study

  1. Researcher: Facilitates in-depth discussion during interviews.
  2. Participant: Shares thoughts and feelings openly, learns from the experience.
  3. Scribe: Transcribes the interview and notes non-verbal cues that enhance understanding of the discussion.

Data Analysis: Thematic Analysis

  • Steps to analyze qualitative data:
    1. Choose sections of ‘rich’ information from transcripts.
    2. Code the data independently, identifying meaningful units.
    3. Discuss codes with the group, categorizing them into themes.
    4. Present findings to the class.

Assessment Preparation

  • Develop questions based on Satterly's model to understand a case study better.
  • Ensure collaboration among group members and accountability in task completion.

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research

  • Key Differences:
    • Qualitative Research focuses on understanding phenomena, using subjective perceptions and smaller sample sizes. It analyzes textual or visual data.
    • Quantitative Research focuses on quantifying phenomena, employing statistical methods on larger samples to draw objective conclusions.

Importance of Qualitative Research in Evidence-Based Practice

  • Qualitative research enhances understanding of client needs, preferences, and decision-making processes, informing best practices in healthcare contexts.

Questions for Qualitative Inquiry

  • Formulate qualitative questions that delve into experiences, beliefs, and contextual factors affecting individuals related to the case study. Examples include:
    • How does…?
    • What meanings do… assign to…?
    • How do gender roles impact…?

Reflection and Future Action

  • After interviews, reflect on learnings and consider how insights can be applied to future healthcare practices.