Qualitative Research Methods - Summary Notes

Course Overview

  • Course: Qualitative Research Methods (QLM)

  • Institution: Lucerne University of Applied Sciences (HSLU)

  • Credits: 3 ECTS

Learning Objectives

  • Understand methodology related to applied research.

  • Develop research questions and hypotheses.

  • Evaluate qualitative research methods and designs.

  • Apply qualitative methods for data collection and analysis.

  • Interpret qualitative data and present results.

  • Critically evaluate research quality using quality criteria.

Research Methods Overview

  • Qualitative vs. Quantitative Methods:

    • Qualitative: understanding reality as socially constructed, exploratory, flexible processes.

    • Quantitative: objectified reality, deductive hypothesis testing, controlled conditions.

Assessment Structure

  • Group Assignment: 50%

  • Written Exam: 50%

Group Assignment Details

  • Conduct a research project and submit a report (12-14 pages).

  • Presentations include Research Design and Research Project phases.

  • Follow structured report format including introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and bibliography.

Research Process Steps

  1. Identify research topic and problem.

  2. Formulate research questions.

  3. Choose data collection methods (e.g., interviews or focus groups).

  4. Analyze data and report findings.

Characteristics of Qualitative Research

  • Involves understanding interactions, context, and subjective experiences.

  • Employs methods like interviews, focus groups, and qualitative content analysis.

Developing Good Research Questions

  • Clearly formulated and researchable

  • Connect to existing theory and research

  • Contribute to knowledge

  • Maintain appropriate scope

Example Qualitative Questions

  • What are the perceptions of employees about workplace satisfaction?

  • How do branding strategies affect consumer reactions?

Upcoming Tasks

  • Create project plans, specify topics and questions, choose methods, and conduct literature reviews by set deadlines.

Contact Information

  • Franziska Kohler, Lecturer, HSLU

  • Dr. Anna Amacher Hoppler, Lecturer, HSLU