Qualitative and Mixed-Methods Research

Lecture Objectives

  • Understand the use of qualitative methods in health research.
  • Discuss the types of qualitative research used in health research.
  • Appreciate the advantages and disadvantages of using unstructured and semi-structured interviews as well as focus groups in health research.

Research Paradigms

  • Research paradigms guide how research is conducted based on:
    • Ontology: Nature of reality
    • Epistemology: Basis of knowledge and methods of acquiring it
    • Methodology: Overall approach to research

Ontology vs. Epistemology

  • Ontology:
    • Represents the nature of existence and reality.
    • Either:
    • A single, objective reality (scientific perspective).
    • Multiple, subjective realities constructed through human interaction.
  • Epistemology:
    • Theory of knowledge determining how we understand and gather knowledge.
    • Proposes that knowledge is either absolute and quantifiable or shaped by societal interactions.
  • Methodology:
    • Relates to whether approaches are qualitative or quantitative.

Positivism

  • Ontology: Belief in one verifiable reality.
  • Epistemology: Knowledge derived from observable phenomena.
  • Methodology: Quantitative, experimental, predictability, control.

Interpretivism/Constructivism

  • Ontology: Acknowledges multiple constructed realities.
  • Epistemology: Knowledge emerges from human interactions and social context.
  • Methodology: Focus on qualitative methods like case studies.

Interrelation of Ontology, Epistemology, and Methodology

  • Theoretical perspectives determine:
    • What is considered reality?
    • How can we know that reality?
    • Which methodologies are appropriate for investigation?

Qualitative Research Approaches

Key Types

  • Narrative Research: Focuses on personal stories and experiences.
  • Phenomenological Research: Explores individual perceptions and experiences.
  • Case Study Research: In-depth analysis of a particular case.
  • Ethnographic Research: Examines cultures through immersion.
  • Grounded Theory Research: Develops theory derived from data.

Unstructured Interviews

  • Defined by no predetermined questions.
  • In-depth, open-ended discussions allow informants to share diverse perspectives.
    • Good for sensitive topics where open communication is necessary.

Semi-Structured Interviews

  • Combines predetermined and spontaneous questions.
  • Allows control over topics while maintaining openness.
  • Useful for specific research questions that may require guided discussions.

Recruitment Techniques for Interviews

  • Purposeful Sampling: Selecting individuals with deep knowledge of the topic.
  • Snowball Sampling: Participants recommend others with relevant experience.
  • Convenience Sampling: Choosing participants based on ease of access.
  • Theoretic Saturation: Recruitment continues until no new themes emerge in the data.

Data Management in Qualitative Research

Recording Data

  • Importance of accurately recording participant responses to maintain authenticity.
  • Digital audio recording is common, though video may capture non-verbal cues yet can be intrusive.

Data Coding

  • Thematic analysis is preferred, focusing on meanings rather than specific word occurrences.
  • Various coding techniques are employed, including software tools like NVivo or MAXQDA for efficiency.

Enhancing Rigor in Qualitative Research

  • Validity: Ensuring depth and richness of data.
  • Reliability: Consistency in observations.
    • Achieved through systematic techniques like audio recording and independent coding verification.
  • Generalizability: Findings should reflect broader socio-cultural contexts, not merely statistical significance.

Focus Groups in Health Research

Importance

  • Effective for discussing shared experiences among participants.
  • Provides insights into health services and allows users to frame their concerns in their own terms.

Setup

  • Optimal group size: 6-10 participants.
  • Select neutral and comfortable locations to encourage open discussions.
  • Facilitation by skilled moderators enhances the quality of interaction.

Ethical Considerations

  • Confidentiality issues must be managed appropriately, ensuring that participants are not compelled to share sensitive information.
  • Participants may require compensation for their time and travel; ethical concerns should govern incentive structures.

Data Analysis in Focus Groups

  • Thematic content analysis to identify common themes.
  • Group dynamics can provide deeper insights than individual responses; focus on consensus and divergence in opinions.