Intro to Qualitative Methods

Question 1

What is the Non-positivist Qualitative research paradigm?

Answer 1

• There is no one correct version of reality or knowledge
• Argues there are multiple versions of reality, bound by the context in which they happen

Question 2

What are some other elements of the QRP?

Answer 2

• Use of naturally occuring research methods
• An interest in meanings rather than reports of measures of behaviour
• The recognition that researchers bring their subjectivity into the research process

Question 3

How is data collected?

Answer 3

• Interviews
• Focus groups
• Secondary sources
• Observational techniques (Participant and non-participant)

Question 5

What is reflexive practice?

Answer 5

• Researchers increasingly need to focus on self-knowledge and sensitivity
• Carefully monitor their biases

Question 6

What should researchers be mindful of in terms of reflexive bias?

Answer 6

• Refelction about the power dynamic - who holds power in an interview situation?
• Researcher’s position of an in/out group member and whether they have shared experiences with participants

Question 7

What are the 3 types of interview?

Answer 7

Structured interviews, semi-structured interviews and unstructured interviews

Question 8

What is similar between semi structured/unstructured?

Answer 8

Both gather qualitative data about opinions and experiences
- Often interviewee orientated and guided

Question 9

What should an interview script be?

Answer 9

A flexible tool aimed at maximising the flow of information

Question 10

How should an interview be conducted?

Answer 10

• Order questions so that non-threatening questions are first
  -Have a nice starter question that is not too general but also allows discussion
• Probes (please tell me more about this; who, what; where; how)
• Make sure you use clear language and avoid technical terms depending on your participant
• Pilot your questions for understanding and to check ‘flow’ of the interview
• But also use someone from your target population for the pilot
• Ensure your questions allow you to meet research study aims
• Consider length of interview in terms of time (appropriate number of questions)

Question 11

What are the different types of probes?

Answer 11

• Silent - head nods
• Echo - repeat last statement
• Neutral - encouraging
• Direct - tell me more
• Phased assertion - encourage respondant to speak up
• Detail
• Clarifying - describe what you meant by ‘x’