Qualitative Methods and Mixed Methods

Question 1

What is phenomenology?

Answer 1

Focuses on the commonality of a lived experience within a group. Researcher may construct meaning of the event and an understanding of the phenomenon.

Question 2

What is case study?

Answer 2

Descriptive and exploratory analysis of a phenomenon within its real-life context in a person, group or event.

Question 3

What is ethnography?

Answer 3

The study of people in their own environment through the use of observation or interviewing.

Question 4

What is grounded theory?

Answer 4

Involves the collection and analysis of data. Theories are then developed AFTER the data is collected. They are “grounded” in data.

Question 5

Describe the steps involved in a convergent study design.

Answer 5

1. Qualitative and quantitative data collection/analysis occur at the same time but separately.
2. During data interpretation, the data from both the qual. and quant. arms are combined and interpreted.
3. Reporting and dissemination of findings.

Question 6

Describe the steps involved in a sequential study design.

Answer 6

1. Qualitative data collection, analysis and interpretation.
2. Quantitative data collection, analysis and interpretation.
3. Reporting and dissemination of quant. and qual. as two separate strands.
4. Reporting and dissemination of mixed methods findings.

Question 7

Describe the steps involved in a multiphase study design.

Answer 7

1. Level one data collection, analysis
2. Level two data collection, analysis.
3. Interpretation of results/findings
4. Reporting and dissemination of results/findings.

Question 8

Describe the steps involved in an embedded study design.

Answer 8

1. Qual. and quan. combined: data collection and analysis.
2. Interpretation of findings
3. Reporting and dissemination.