Qualitative Methods of Data Collection Flashcards
Ethnography
The study of how people construct their realities through conversation and gestures.
Characteristics of a Good Site (meeting place)
- Based on potential research questions.
- Based on the research topic.
- Exposure to the behaviours, attitudes, and processes of interest.
- Accessible location.
- Respect the time that you have to conduct the research.
- Distance and traveling.
Research Roles
Overt and Covert Researcher
Overt Researcher
- Open about being a researcher; mistrust, participants may behave differently, and avoid moral/ethical dilemmas.
Covert Researcher
Not open about being a researcher; develops relationships more rapidly, and risks of being uncovered.
Data Collection Strategies
Participant Observation, Non-Participant Observation, Observation, and Interviews
Participant Observation
When the observer becomes part of the group being studied. Allows a closer look at the group being studied.
Non-Participant Observation
When the observer remains outside of the group being studied and watches their behaviours.
Observation
A way of gathering data by watching behaviour, events, or noting physical characteristics in their natural setting.
Interviews
Involve asking open-ended questions to converse with respondents and collect data about a suject.
Semi-Structured Interviews
A meeting where the interviewer asks open-ended questions, instead of following a strict set of questions.
A “conversation” between interviewer and interviewee
Interview Guide
A list of important topics that you plan on covering in the interview with the important questions that you want to answer.
- List of topics, potential open-ended questions and follow up questions.
- 5-6 questions, which should refer to general experiences
