This document discusses qualitative research methods. It provides tables comparing qualitative and quantitative research approaches. It discusses how qualitative research focuses on understanding patterns within contexts through generating and verifying explanations, while quantitative research emphasizes prediction and testing hypotheses. The document also addresses ensuring validity in qualitative research through techniques like triangulation, extended fieldwork, and participant feedback. Examples of qualitative research possibilities in quantitative studies are discussed, such as the design of survey questions.

1. Qualitative MethodsWhy would we use them?What are they like?How do we assure validity?

2. Some elaboration on Table 13.1Quantitative ResearchQualitative ResearchEmphasis on prediction and regular patternsTesting hypotheses with an eye to falsificationWhen random sampling is used, generalizable results are obtainedReport: Statistical in nature, with significance tests and graphsEmphasis on understanding patterns within contextsGenerating and verifying hypothesized explanationsResults are generalized by approximation to the traits of the participants studiedReport: Rich narrative with direct quotations. May also have graphs or counts.

3. Table 13.2 – Ways that Qualitative Research is Distinct

4. Design – compare with experimental designs

5. Data collection – Compare with Measurement chapters

6. Analysis Strategies - compare with statistical analysis

7. Think and Talk – Qualitative Possibilities in Quantitative StudiesMilgram’s obedience studiesThe design of survey questions(do they capture the full richness of the answer?)The language acquisition studies (Chinese and American language)The Hole in the Wall StudiesThe Change-Blindness study

8. Validity in Qualitative Research

9. Table 13.3 – Code the indicatorsDescriptive validityInvestigator triangulationInterpretive validityParticipant feedbackLow-inference descriptors (define “low inference”)Theoretical validityExtended fieldworkTheory triangulationPattern matchingPeer review

10. Table 13.3 – Code the indicatorsInternal validity(compare with experimental designs)(Explain ideographic vsnomological causation)Researcher-as-detectiveMethods triangulationData triangulationExternal validity (compare with experimental designs)Naturalistic generalizationTheoretical generalization

11. ExamplesFIRSTPreviously viewed: Research on girls’ video games SECONDMixed methods: A Girl like meQualitative researchis used often in nursing and health careresearch, as well as in anthropology, sociology, women’s studies, cultural studies, and political science.

12. Qualitative MethodsComing next:Particular qualitative approaches