qualitative data Flashcards
what is quantitative data - inductive or deductive?
systematic investigation which uses numerical data
focus on quantifying variables
objective testing of hypotheses
deductive
what epistemological position does quantitative data take
positivism
what is qualitative data - inductive or deductive?
describes and categorises the qualities of data
inductive
what is the epistemological position of qualitative data
constructivism
constructivism vs positivism
positivism believes = single, objective reality that can be measured and understood through scientific methods
constructivism = views reality as subjective and constructed by individuals through their experiences and interactions
evaluate quantitative data
+objective research can be replicated
+can investigate specific variable whilst controlling others
-sometimes too abstract and not applicable to real life situations
evaluate qualitative data
+greater depth of understanding
+meaningful results
-not objective
-time consuming
-more difficult to convince others of importance of the study
-double interpretation: researcher brings own beliefs which may affect understanding
qualitative data - what is double hermeneutic
researcher interprets participant’s interpretation of their world
accepted that researcher brings their own beliefs to the situation which affects their understanding
what is mixed methodology
researcher uses both quantitative and qualitative research methods to explore areas of interest - this is an example of triangulation
helps to support qualitative findings
what is triangulation
coming at a research problem from different directions (using two or more different approaches)
evaluate naturalistic observation
high ecological validity
observing PPs actions/behaviours in natural settings
take notes to analyse later
HOWEVER
lack of control over what happens
difficult to be present and not influence behaviour of others
how can you record what you are experiencing?
what are the three types of interviews?
structured: specific questions and orders with no flexibility
semi structured: some flexibility to respond to situation, such as changing order of questions based on PPs response
unstructured: mostly entirely flexible, questions are open ended, more similar to a conversation
what is a focus group
usually 10 or less people
encouraged to discuss specific topics
composition of groups is carefully planned
similar aims of interview, but greater responsibility of PPs sharing depth of information
what is the potential issue with focus groups
sharing personal material with others, avoiding strongly conflicting views, not objective
what is ethnography
researchers immerse themselves in the group they are studying
PP observation
collect data on experience as member of culture/group
provides a way of collecting data, but not necessarily analysing it
