Qualitative Research Question and Choosing the Approach and Framework
Developing the Qualitative Research Question and Choosing the Approach and Framework
Palm trees grow strong and tall, withstanding heat, storms, earthquakes, and time. These amazing trees have deep root systems that tap into nourishing water in dry climates, and their trunks can bend and move with the winds and rain.
The work of the past three weeks has created your deep root system of understanding the underpinnings of qualitative research. Now it is time to begin growing your trunk and leaves to create a strong, flexible approach that can work in a naturalistic, reflexive, and contextually sensitive environment.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Select a qualitative research approach
- Formulate a draft research question
- Identify the procedures that are consistent with the chosen qualitative research approach
- Review and confirm their prospectus choice of theoretical/conceptual framework
Learning Resources
Required Readings
Patton, M. Q. (2015). Qualitative research & evaluation methods: Integrating theory and practice (4th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE.
- Chapter 4, “Practical and Actionable Qualitative Applications” (pp. 169–242)
Optional Resources
- Chapter 3, “Origins of a Conceptual Framework: The Birth of Grit” (pp. 35–56)
- Chapter 4, “Excavating Questions: Conceptual Frameworks and Research Design” (pp. 57–78)
Week 5: Preparing the Qualitative Research Plan: Considerations for Participant Selection and Instrumentation
The first four weeks of this course have been an immersion in the epistemology of qualitative research—that is, the various ways we go about expanding our understanding of a specific phenomenon and how that understanding shifts depending on the choice of approach.
We now shift to the methods of qualitative research—the procedures and strategies employed to produce rigorous, trustworthy results. While some of the particulars will vary across approaches, the following are fundamental components common to all qualitative methodologies:
- Participant selection
- Instrumentation (choices and development)
- Procedures for recruitment, participation, and data collection
- Plan for data analysis
- Evaluation of trustworthiness
- Ethical procedures for protecting participants
The rubrics that are associated with each of these components as appropriate to a qualitative capstone are contained in the qualitative checklist in this week’s Learning Resources.
This week’s focus is on participant selection and the choice of interview guides as instruments for collecting qualitative data.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Identify appropriate selection criteria for research participants
- Review considerations for choosing the qualitative interview as the primary data collection method
Learning Resources
Required Readings
