Module 11 - The nature of qualitative research

Question 1

Ontology

Answer 1

Theory about nature of reality / social entities

Question 2

Epistemology

Answer 2

Theory of knowledge/knowledge production

Question 3

Thick descriptions

Answer 3

Rich and detailed descriptions of the studied context

Question 4

Positionality

Answer 4

Acknowledgement that the researcher’s socio/historical/economical/political background and identity affect the perception and frame of reference when observing, interpreting, and generally studying a social phenomenon.

Question 5

Flexibility

Answer 5

No predefined variables

Question 6

Openness

Answer 6

Not (or less) structured beforehand

Question 7

Exploration

Answer 7

New insights from data

Question 8

Sensitising concepts

Answer 8

First conceptual guide

Question 9

Grounded theory

Answer 9

Approach to the generation of concepts from data

Question 10

Abduction

Answer 10

Form of induction in which perspective ad worldviews if respondents/participants are leading

Question 11

Feminist critique

Answer 11

Questions idea of detached value, neutral researcher. Recognises individuals as actors with agency, own interest, perspectives

Question 12

Etic perspective

Answer 12

Perspective of researcher

Question 13

Emic perspective

Answer 13

Perspective of the studied social group

Question 14

Trustworthiness

Answer 14

• Credibility (internal validity)
• Transferability (external validity)
• Dependability (reliability)
• Confirmability (Objectivity)

Question 15

Authenticity

Answer 15

• Ontological
• Educative
• Catalytic
• Tactical
• Fairness

Question 16

Triangulation

Answer 16

Combining different methods