Qualitative Research

1. Qualitative Research: Philosophical Assumptions

1.1. Ontological

1.1.1. Q. "What is the nature of reality?"

1.2. Epistemological

1.2.1. Q. "What is the relationship between researcher and that being researched?"

1.3. Axiological

1.3.1. Q. "What is the role of values in research?

1.4. Rhetoritcal

1.4.1. Q. "What is the language of research?

1.5. Methodological

1.5.1. Q. "What is the process of research?"

2. Qualitative Research: Key Characteristics

2.1. Natural Setting

2.2. Researcher = data collection instrument

2.3. Data triangulation

2.4. Inductive data analysis

2.5. Constructed meaning

2.6. Emergent design

2.7. Theoretical lens / interpretation

2.8. Holistic perspective

3. Qualitative Research Concept Map: Approach, Assumptions, Characteristics, and Usage

4. Qualitative Research: Appropriate Contexts

4.1. Complex questions

4.2. Questions of "What?", "Why?", or "How?"

4.3. In-depth / detailed picture

4.4. Further exploration of quantitative research problems

4.5. Developing explanation

4.6. Developing causal theory

5. Qualitative Research: Constructivist Approach

5.1. Knowledge is generated as ideas and experience interact with one another

5.2. Knowledge is socially-constructed (contra. Positivism)