4. Data collection in qualitative research

Question 1

In what 4 purposes can observation be used?

Answer 1

1. general observation to get accquainted
2. Focused observation = do people do what they say
3. observation to get tacti knowledge
4. ovservation to capture a phenomenon and its specific components in greater detail.

Question 2

What is participant observation?

Answer 2

The researcher is able to develop an insider’s view of what is happening through a mix of personal experiences, observations and informal discussions.

Question 3

What is the big risk of participant observation?

Answer 3

Going native.

Question 4

What does overt and covert participation mean?

Answer 4

Researcher wants to be known (overt) or unknown (covert) to the people studied.

Question 5

Name the 2 types of interview guides!

Answer 5

Thematically structured and standardised. Depends on the personality of the interviewer.

Question 6

Name different types of open-ended questions!

Answer 6

hypothetical, provocative, ideal, interpretive

Question 7

What does symbolic interactionism mean?

Answer 7

The world is holistic and socially constructed by

the participants.

Question 8

Can you use real names in your log?

Answer 8

No, sucker!

Question 9

Are data collection and the analysis done separated or simultaneous?

Answer 9

Normally simultaneous

Question 10

What are the 3 types of field notes? Explain them!

Answer 10

Substantive = detailed portraits of various situations, physical descriptions of situations.

Methodological = reflexive. The researcher self analyses him/herself during the research process.

Analytical = include summaries that are written at the end of the day in the field, lists of themes that have emerged, concepts that can be developed and a discussion of the possible analytical or theoretical framework.