7 Essential Considerations for your Qualitative Research Project
Individuals choose their study methodology based on their familiarity with a given method. In contrast, data analysis methods should be based on the questions your research will address. Before choosing a method of analysis, review the 7 essential considerations below to find out if qualitative research is the right choice for your study and how to best go about the research process.
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- Research questions. Certain research questions are better answered with qualitative research. Studies that seek to understand, explore or describe occurrences rather than find a definitive answer lend themselves to the qualitative method. Some students even choose a mixed-method dissertation which employs both quantitative and qualitative research. A great way to determine which method is best for your study is to consider the research methods of studies on similar topics. It’s important to let the research questions inform the qualitative analysis process.
- Method of data collection. Data collection for qualitative research exists in several forms. Interviews, focus groups, surveys, and extensive literature review are common methods used to collect qualitative data. Furthermore, some studies choose to use a variety of methods to come to the conclusion.
- Your collection tools. Most often qualitative research involves surveys, focus groups, and interviews. Since qualitative studies are exploratory in nature it’s important to avoid asking leading questions. Carefully examine, and better yet, have a second set of eyes examine your study to avoid leading questions, which can weaken your methodology.
- Data analysis. Qualitative analysis involves more than just merging a list of facts. A dissertation consultant can work with you to thematize the data for your study.
- Hiring a dissertation consultant. Your research advisor is busy and does not always have the time to work with you on your project or address your research-related concerns. A dissertation consultant helps you work through the qualitative analysis, regardless of your level of knowledge in the area.
- Early data analysis. Early explorations and pilot studies serve as a way to explore the field without narrowing down on any specific topic just yet. Explore the data to pick out early findings that you may want to explore in depth. In a qualitative study this can take the form of doing focus groups with a small sample size or doing a few interviews. You can also reconsider your research focus with informed early data analysis.
- Clean and easy is not always best. Because qualitative projects are not as strictly defined, it’s important to avoid the easy way out during the research process. Instead, let your questions and data drive the research methods and qualitative analysis that you undertake in your project.
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