Lecture 7 Flashcards
Interpretivist approach
People are no (or not just) molecules, atoms and electrons
Verstehen
interpretative understanding of social action
Reflexivity
sensitivity of and adaptation by the researcher to his or her influence in the research setting
Credibility (≈ internal validity)
Good practice and respondent validation
Transferability (≈ external validity)
Note the importance of contextual dependence
Dependability (≈ reliability)
Keep records, fieldnotes, etc. accessible
Sensitivity to context
e.g., ethics, social-cultural setting, subject’s perspective
Commitment and rigour
e.g., thoroughness, skills, in-depth engagement
Transparency and coherence
e.g., transparent methods, power of argument
Impact and importance
e.g., practical for policy makers/community
Triangulation
Combining multiple observers, methods, theories, empirical materials, analyses, respondents, informants, standpoints etc. and evaluate whether they forward the same result.
Contradiction
actively search for counter evidence or deviant cases
Respondent validation
Data or results are returned or discussed with participants to check their accuracy and validity
Grounded theory
A systematic methodology in the social sciences involving the construction of theory through the analysis of data
Case study
Detailed and extensive analysis of one case (e.g., typical cases, critical cases, deviant cases, unique cases)
Purposive sampling
elements are selected because of their unique position
Snowball sampling
elements are selected by informants or interviewees
Theoretical sampling
sample is drawn in sequential fashion, with elements being selected for study when earlier observations indicate that these elements are influential
Flexible interviews
Unstructured interview: Few or loosely defined topics, conversational style.
Structured interview: Flexible phrasing and question ordering, but specific list of topics to cover (i.e., interview guide).
A focus group
- Form of group interview
- Several participants and a moderator
- Individuals in a social context - Study interaction between group members
Ethnography
A method in which an observer/ethnographer immerses him- or herself in a culture or cultural group for an extended period of time, observing behaviour, listening to what is said in conversations both between others and with the fieldworker, and asking questions
Participant observation
A research strategy that involves collecting data by observing people and/or interacting with them in their normal activities
Covert observer
researcher does not participate in group activities and does not disclose role as a researcher.
Overt observer
researcher does not participate in group activities but does disclose role as a researcher
Overt participant
researcher actively participates in group activities and discloses the research role
Covert participant
researcher actively participates in group activities and does not disclose the research role.
