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The Oxford Handbook of Qualitative Research (2nd edn)

The Oxford Handbook of Qualitative Research (2nd edn)

The Oxford Handbook of Qualitative Research (2nd edn)

Patricia Leavy Independent Scholar Kennebunk, ME, USA

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The Oxford Handbook of Qualitative Research, second edition, presents a comprehensive retrospective and prospective review of the field of qualitative research. Original, accessible chapters written by interdisciplinary leaders in the field make this a critical reference work. Filled with robust examples from real-world research; ample discussion of the historical, theoretical, and methodological foundations of the field; and coverage of key issues including data collection, interpretation, representation, assessment, and teaching, this handbook aims to be a valuable text for students, professors, and researchers. This newly revised and expanded edition features up-to-date examples and topics, including seven new chapters on duoethnography, team research, writing ethnographically, creative approaches to writing, writing for performance, writing for the public, and teaching qualitative research.

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Foundations of Qualitative Research

Foundations of Qualitative Research Interpretive and Critical Approaches

  • Jerry W. Willis
  • Description
  • Covers the conceptual foundations of interpretive, critical, and post-positivist paradigms: A thorough background of theory and social inquiry is given by looking at the development of each paradigm throughout history.
  • Provides real-world examples: Cases illustrate different approaches to the same research problem so that students can better understand the contrasting features of these paradigms.
  • Introduces seven qualitative research frameworks: In-depth coverage is provided on Altheide and Johnson's Analytic Realism; Denzin and Lincoln's Interpretive Perspective; Eisner's Connoisseurship Model of Inquiry; Semiotics; the Phenomenological Psychological Model; Poststructuralism and Postmodernism; and Symbolic Interactionism.
  • Offers general guidelines for qualitative research: Conceptually covers the best practices, approaches to data analysis, and interpretation of qualitative research.
  • Examines emergent methods in qualitative research: New research areas such as PAR, emancipatory research, and participatory design research are included, as well as exemplary journal articles to further illustrate how theory links to research practice.

See what’s new to this edition by selecting the Features tab on this page. Should you need additional information or have questions regarding the HEOA information provided for this title, including what is new to this edition, please email [email protected] . Please include your name, contact information, and the name of the title for which you would like more information. For information on the HEOA, please go to http://ed.gov/policy/highered/leg/hea08/index.html .

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"Willis catches the student up on relevant aspects of philosophy, empiricism, history, and prevailing political influences.  This building of chronology is so valuable for students in understanding the origins of specific schools of thought in relations to a paradigm."

— Heather T. Zeng, NACADA

One cannot underestimate the importance of this book. Willis deals with topics and concepts that are normally relegated to a paragraph in other methodology books: interpretivism, hermeneutics and phenomenology. Please note I will be recommending it for COM4809 and not COM4801 as indicated below.

A fantastic book for those who are considering to engage in qualitative research. It covers all the vital parts that are included in qualitative inquiry, such as paradigms and methodology to interpretation and meaning. A must for post-grad students

The book is comprehensively written. It can be very useful for masters and doctoral students. The paradigms are well presented which can assist in clearing a lot of confusion which some students have regarding paradigm,

This is a useful book that is recommended for PG level.

A 'must read' for Education and social science students commencing research at UG or PG level. Expertly written, appropriate detail, thought provoking

excellent for health and social care students

A very useful text on the principles underpinning qualitative research and will be very useful for those wanting to explore this approach in some depth

A great text for students who want to know more about qualitative methods. Parts of it may also be interesting as part of an introduction module.

This text had a unique take on exploring qualitative research - finally an entire, well-researched book that had interpretivist (and of course critical) understanding at its heart. I currently work hermeneutically and this book, even at this late stage of my current project has made such a difference.

I particularly like the key articles it uses to exemplify its points - a useful way to get 3rd year undergraduates and PG Dip students seeing direct connections between the methodology and the actual research carried out. I'm already recommending it as in a single book they can easily and flexibly cover interpretive approaches, which helps to add balance to the range of methodologies they are exposed to.

  • Covers the conceptual foundations of interpretive, critical, and post-positivist paradigms of qualitative research;
  • Provides substantial historical background of theory and social inquiry by positioning the development of each paradigm as a reaction to problems throughout history;
  • Uses cases (fictional and real-world) to illustrate different approaches to the same research problem or question so that students can better understand the contrasting features of these approaches/paradigms;
  • Introduces seven qualitative research frameworks: Altheide and Johnson's Analytic Realism; Denzin and Lincoln's Interpretive Perspective; Eisner's Connoisseurship Model of Inquiry; Semiotics; the Phenomenological Psychological Model; Poststructuralism and Postmodernism; and Symbolic Interactionism;
  • Summarizes Denzin and Lincoln's "moments" of qualitative research to provide a historical perspective on the development of qualitative methods;
  • Covers conceptually the best practices, and approaches to data analysis and interpretation of qualitative research;
  • Introduces emergent methods in qualitative research, such as PAR, emancipatory research, and participatory design research.

Sample Materials & Chapters

Willis Articles

Chapter 1 - World Views, Paradigms, and the Practice of Social Science Research

Chapter 3 - Foundational Issues: Postpositivist and Critical Perspectives

Chapter 5 - Frameworks for Qualitative Research

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Monique M. Hennink

Qualitative Research Methods 2nd Edition

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Qualitative Research Methods

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Practical and straightforward, this book is a multidisciplinary introduction to the process of planning, conducting and analysing qualitative research, from selecting appropriate methods to publishing your findings. Built around the authors’ Qualitative Research Cycle – consisting of the design, data collection and analytic cycles – this pragmatic guide clearly demonstrates the steps you need to take to ensure your research is rigorous and robust. Drawing on decades of experience teaching workshops, the book is packed with techniques and tools to help you turn theory and method into research practice. This second edition:

  • Showcases the importance of linking research design to data analysis, helping you avoid potential pitfalls and get the most out of your data
  • Highlights the relevance and wide application of qualitative methods with an array of international examples of real field research and interdisciplinary case studies
  • Gives clear guidance on writing qualitative research, including how to respond to critiques of qualitative methods
  • Has a renewed focus on evaluating quality in qualitative research, ensuring your work is valid, reflexive and ethical

Offering tried and tested research tools like interview guides that you can apply to your own projects and supported by online resources including checklists and reflective questions, this book is the perfect companion for anyone looking to complete a successful project using qualitative research methods.

  • ISBN-10 1473903904
  • ISBN-13 978-1473903906
  • Edition 2nd
  • Publisher SAGE Publications Ltd
  • Publication date February 6, 2020
  • Language English
  • Dimensions 6.9 x 1.1 x 9.8 inches
  • Print length 376 pages
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Qualitative Research Methods: Collecting Evidence, Crafting Analysis, Communicating Impact

Editorial Reviews

This introductory textbook presents a useful framework of three interconnected cycles – the design cycle, the data collection cycle and the analytic cycle – to guide students through the process of conducting qualitative research. Engaging examples illustrate each step from start to completion.

Hennink, Hutter and Bailey provide a highly practical overview of all stages in the qualitative research process, linking clearly the cycles of design, data collection and data analysis. Excellent case studies illustrate qualitative research in practice. The authors’ clarity and coherence throughout the text makes this book a valuable read for all qualitative researchers.

About the Author

Dr. Monique Hennink is an associate professor of global health at Emory University. She has particular expertise in applying qualitative methods to public health research. She has authored five textbooks on qualitative research and developed the “QUAL-WORKS” training program for public health professionals. Her research focuses on behavioral aspects of public health issues by understanding the social, cultural, and contextual influences on behavior in order to develop effective health interventions. Her research focuses primarily on sexual and reproductive health, sanitation behavior, chronic disease management, women’s empowerment, and microcredit. She conducts research in multiple study contexts throughout Africa, Asia, UK, and USA.

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  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ SAGE Publications Ltd; 2nd edition (February 6, 2020)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 376 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1473903904
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1473903906
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.83 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.9 x 1.1 x 9.8 inches
  • #2,603 in Social Sciences Methodology
  • #4,615 in Education Research (Books)
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Qualitative Research

Qualitative Research

  • David Silverman - Visiting Professor at the University of Technology, Sydney and King’s College, London, Emeritus Professor at Goldsmiths’ College, Visiting Professor Emeritus at Leeds University Business School and Adjunct Professor at Queensland University of Technology
  • Description

Written by leaders of qualitative methodology and edited by one of the biggest names in the field, this book provides up-to-date and interdisciplinary insight into a range of qualitative methods. Bringing together different perspectives, contributors discuss theoretical underpinnings of these methods before taking readers through the process of each approach and helping them develop skills needed to carry out this type of research autonomously and with confidence.

Highlights of this new edition include:

  • New chapters on multimethod qualitative research, using digital data and video, and addressing social issues in research.
  • More guidance on how to store and manage data appropriately.
  • Advice on how to publish research in journals.

Full of practical tips, exercises and summaries, this book continues to be a masterclass in qualitative research for students and researchers across the social sciences and beyond.

This book of readings provides us with a wealth of varied advice enlightening the researcher about the exciting world of qualitative research. I recommend the book without hesitation.

David Silverman’s  Qualitative Research , now in its 5 th  edition, is a storehouse of readily accessible approaches to doing qualitative research. it combines in depth focus with broad coverage – an essential resource for researchers requiring up to date advice on the latest approaches to this burgeoning field of research and study.

The fifth edition of this advanced reader in qualitative methods has retained and added to its stunning line-up of authors, increasing and updating its breadth and depth to present leading accounts of the fast moving field of social media analysis and the use of video and other visual data, in addition to a wide range of other methods used by qualitative researchers. This book will really help qualitative researchers think through and enhance their practice and I recommend it

It provided me with ideas for further research in my field based on vi sual methods, internet communication, ethnography, and focus groups.

Accessible, informative, extensive topic coverage

An excellent resource

Well thought out chapters. I feel like this is a book version of a research supervisor for qualitative research!

I dont like electronic books and many students do not either. However I do like David Silvermans work and for students who can work with electronic books I think this is a highly recommendable text

Key updates in new edition

1.        Chapter on Mixed Methods Research

2.       More advice on data management 

3.       Chapter on digital data and video 4.       Guidance on publishing in journals

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Sample materials & chapters.

Chapter 17: Visual Research: Issues and Developments

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12 Good Books on Qualitative Research

By Med Kharbach, PhD | Published: June 20, 2023 | Updated: February 28, 2024

qualitative research methodology book

In today’s list, I am sharing with you some of the most impactful books that helped shape my understanding of qualitative research. These books are more than just academic texts; they are powerful tools that unlocked the secrets of data analysis, the art of crafting impactful narratives, and the science of asking the right questions.

Of all the wonderful resources listed, if I had to recommend just one indispensable guide, it would undoubtedly be John W. Creswell’s “ Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches “. This book offers an invaluable roadmap for any researcher, irrespective of their level of expertise, and forms the backbone of a successful research project. Creswell’s ingenious blend of methodologies is not just about theoretical knowledge; it instills the reader with a practical sense of how to design a robust and compelling research project.

For those of you interested in quantitative research, make sure to check out my other post entitled best books on quantitative research .

Books on Qualitative Research

Here are my picks for best books on qualitative research:

1. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches, by John W. Creswell and J. David Creswell

Books on Qualitative Research

This widely recognized book offers a comprehensive study of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research methodologies. Its distinguishing feature is its juxtaposition of all three research designs, making it a valuable resource for both new and experienced researchers. The authors provide a meticulous guide that starts with a fundamental understanding of philosophical suppositions, essential aspects of the research process, literature review, theory application in research, and the significance of writing and ethics in academic inquiry.

The updated edition includes a detailed discussion on research proposal design and research study steps. It sheds light on the positioning of epistemological and ontological views in relation to the selected research question and methodology. It also delves into the transformative worldview and features expanded insights into case studies, participatory action research, visual methods, and action research in mixed methods.

Find it:  Amazon  |  Bookshop

2. The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research, by Norman K. Denzin, Yvonna S. Lincoln, Michael D. Giardina, Gaile S. Cannella (Editors)

Books on Qualitative Research

The Sixth Edition of The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research is virtually a new volume, delivering an enriching dialogue on the discipline, practices, and conduct of qualitative inquiry. This edition pioneers fresh perspectives and techniques, with 27 out of 34 chapters focused on innovative topics or approaches not covered in the previous version.

The novel areas of study include intersectionality, critical disability research, postcolonial and decolonized knowledge, diffraction and intra-action, and social media methodologies. Other new chapters explore thematic analysis, collaborative inquiry from the borderlands, qualitative inquiry’s relationship with public health science, co-production and the politics of impact, qualitative research publishing, and academic survival.

3. Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation, by Sharan B. Merriam, Elizabeth J. Tisdell

Books on Qualitative Research

The fourth edition of this bestselling guide provides an in-depth understanding of qualitative research, from conceptualization to presentation. Emphasizing the importance of theoretical frameworks in designing a study, the book offers practical guidance in an accessible, jargon-free style that caters to both new and seasoned researchers.

The latest edition includes expanded coverage of mixed methods, action research, arts-based research, and online data sources. It also presents the newest developments in data analysis, encompassing both software packages and narrative and poetic analysis techniques. In addition, it offers a new section on diverse ways of presenting qualitative research findings, making it an indispensable resource for effective communication of results.

4. Qualitative Research from Start to Finish , by Robert K. Yin

Books on Qualitative Research

This insightful book offers a comprehensive understanding of the practice of qualitative research. It guides readers through all significant research phases, from startup and design to data collection, analysis, and composition, covering newly emerging trends in the field. The unique aspect of the book is its portrayal of qualitative research as an adaptive craft, offering readers an array of methodological choices to tailor their studies according to different worldviews and genres.

The new edition provides an enhanced discussion on different worldviews, including constructivism, postpositivism, and pragmatism, and how these relate to methodological choices. There is a clearer emphasis on executing a generalized qualitative study while acknowledging the existence of 12 specialized genres, such as action-based research, arts-based research, autoethnography, grounded theory, phenomenology, and others. The book also features expanded discussions of diverse qualitative study samples and mixed methods.

5. Qualitative Research Design: An Interactive Approach, by Joseph A. Maxwell

Books on Qualitative Research

Joseph A. Maxwell’s third edition of Qualitative Research Design: An Interactive Approach offers a user-friendly, step-by-step guide to planning qualitative research. The book’s main strength is its interactive approach, which highlights the interplay among the various components of research design.

The author provides a strategic framework for creating coherent and viable relationships among these components, emphasizing key design issues. The book’s language is informal and free of heavy jargon, making it accessible to a broad range of readers.

The book is sprinkled with real-world examples and hands-on exercises designed to reinforce the concepts discussed and to provide practical insights into the planning and execution of qualitative research. This comprehensive guide is an invaluable resource for both students and researchers embarking on their qualitative research journey.

Find it:  Amazon  |  Bookshop

6. Qualitative Research: Bridging the Conceptual, Theoretical, and Methodological, by Sharon M. Ravitch, Nicole Mittenfelner Carl

Books on Qualitative Research

The second edition of Qualitative Research emphasizes the harmonization of theoretical, methodological, and conceptual dimensions, providing deeper insights into their interplay in qualitative research. This comprehensive resource equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct rigorous, valid, and respectful qualitative research.

The book serves as an effective learning tool for both newcomers and those already familiar with qualitative research, helping students develop a comprehensive understanding of a research approach that seeks, designs for, and engages in criticality.

The new edition has amplified and relocated the discussion on research ethics to a prominent position, reflecting its importance in students’ inquiry. It offers more insights on reflexivity in data collection and specific methods for qualitative data collection. There is a more detailed chapter on coding and other types of qualitative data analysis. Additionally, the resource sections have been expanded, including links to the comprehensive appendices to further aid students on their qualitative research journey.

7. Qualitative Research , by David Silverman (Editor)

Books on Qualitative Research

This edition of Qualitative Research serves as a comprehensive guide, providing students with a holistic view of qualitative research. It not only explains the rationale behind such research but also provides practical advice on how to get started, select appropriate methods, conduct research, and perform data analysis. Each chapter, akin to a masterclass from a leading scholar in qualitative research, comes with practical tips, summaries, exercises, and further reading to assist in understanding and application.

The fourth edition has been streamlined to guide readers through the research process in a step-by-step manner. A significant new section with four chapters has been added, focusing on the collection and analysis of online data. A new chapter on reflexive ethnography is also included, offering insights into this nuanced qualitative research method.

8. Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design , by John W. Creswell, Cheryl N. Poth

qualitative research methodology book

The revised Fourth Edition of this best-selling text is a comprehensive exploration of the philosophical foundations, historical development, and crucial elements of five qualitative inquiry approaches: narrative research, phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnography, and case study.

The Fourth Edition is enhanced with new content, articles, pedagogical features, and references. It provides a broader discussion on research ethics and serves as an excellent introduction to the theories, strategies, and practices of qualitative inquiry. This book is an ideal resource for those embarking on their qualitative research journey, offering nuanced understanding and practical strategies for choosing among these five significant approaches in qualitative research.

9. Qualitative Research Methods, by Sarah J. Tracy

Books on Qualitative Research

This comprehensive guide brings together both theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of qualitative research in a way that is engaging and accessible. The book adopts a phronetic-iterative approach, leading readers through every phase of a qualitative research project, from design to data collection and analysis, through to theory development and effective communication of results.

The book provides in-depth coverage of a variety of topics, including qualitative theories, research ethics, sampling techniques, interviewing methods, and ensuring quality in qualitative research. Practical advice on fieldwork is also included, offering clear and concise guidance on how to design and conduct robust research projects.

Find it:  Amazon  |  Bookshop

10. Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods, by Michael Quinn Patton

Books on Qualitative Research

Drawing from over 40 years of applied social science research and program evaluation experience, author Michael Quinn Patton presents the most systematic and comprehensive book on qualitative research and evaluation methods available. In this fourth edition, he offers a more balanced view of applied research and evaluation.

The book shines a light on all facets of qualitative inquiry, using new examples, stories, cartoons, and over a hundred new summarizing and synthesizing exhibits. For the first time, it includes full case studies that illustrate extended research and evaluation examples. Additionally, each chapter contains an in-depth “rumination” about a core issue of persistent debate and controversy, which is intended to be both emphatic and engaging.

12. Qualitative Data Collection Tools, by Felice D. Billups

Books on Qualitative Research

This unique supplementary text guides students and new researchers to design, develop, and apply qualitative tools to gather qualitative data. This essential aspect of qualitative research, often overlooked in general textbooks, forms the backbone of the data collection process. Felice D. Billups uses her experience as a qualitative researcher and in teaching and advising students about qualitative research to develop the templates in this book as a starting point for those conducting original qualitative research.

The book briefly describes each method of data collection and offers readers suggestions for using and adapting the qualitative instrument templates within the text. The text is filled with templates for interview protocols, focus group moderator guides, content analysis tools, document analysis tools, reflective questionnaires, diary and journal logs, and observational rubrics.

Final thoughts

If you’re new to qualitative, consider this list your foundational toolkit. And for seasoned researchers, may these books provide fresh insights or perhaps remind you of important tenets you may have forgotten. The beauty of qualitative research is its ever-evolving nature, and these books offer lenses through which you can appreciate its many facets.

And don’t just stop at qualitative research. If your work leans into the quantitative side of things, make sure to circle back to my other post on the best books for quantitative research . It’s all about having a well-rounded toolset, right?

Related Posts

qualitative research methodology book

Meet Med Kharbach, PhD

Dr. Med Kharbach is an influential voice in the global educational landscape, with an extensive background in educational studies and a decade-long experience as a K-12 teacher. Holding a Ph.D. from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada, he brings a unique perspective to the educational world by integrating his profound academic knowledge with his hands-on teaching experience. Dr. Kharbach's academic pursuits encompass curriculum studies, discourse analysis, language learning/teaching, language and identity, emerging literacies, educational technology, and research methodologies. His work has been presented at numerous national and international conferences and published in various esteemed academic journals.

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StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.

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StatPearls [Internet].

Qualitative study.

Steven Tenny ; Janelle M. Brannan ; Grace D. Brannan .

Affiliations

Last Update: September 18, 2022 .

  • Introduction

Qualitative research is a type of research that explores and provides deeper insights into real-world problems. [1] Instead of collecting numerical data points or intervene or introduce treatments just like in quantitative research, qualitative research helps generate hypotheses as well as further investigate and understand quantitative data. Qualitative research gathers participants' experiences, perceptions, and behavior. It answers the hows and whys instead of how many or how much. It could be structured as a stand-alone study, purely relying on qualitative data or it could be part of mixed-methods research that combines qualitative and quantitative data. This review introduces the readers to some basic concepts, definitions, terminology, and application of qualitative research.

Qualitative research at its core, ask open-ended questions whose answers are not easily put into numbers such as ‘how’ and ‘why’. [2] Due to the open-ended nature of the research questions at hand, qualitative research design is often not linear in the same way quantitative design is. [2] One of the strengths of qualitative research is its ability to explain processes and patterns of human behavior that can be difficult to quantify. [3] Phenomena such as experiences, attitudes, and behaviors can be difficult to accurately capture quantitatively, whereas a qualitative approach allows participants themselves to explain how, why, or what they were thinking, feeling, and experiencing at a certain time or during an event of interest. Quantifying qualitative data certainly is possible, but at its core, qualitative data is looking for themes and patterns that can be difficult to quantify and it is important to ensure that the context and narrative of qualitative work are not lost by trying to quantify something that is not meant to be quantified.

However, while qualitative research is sometimes placed in opposition to quantitative research, where they are necessarily opposites and therefore ‘compete’ against each other and the philosophical paradigms associated with each, qualitative and quantitative work are not necessarily opposites nor are they incompatible. [4] While qualitative and quantitative approaches are different, they are not necessarily opposites, and they are certainly not mutually exclusive. For instance, qualitative research can help expand and deepen understanding of data or results obtained from quantitative analysis. For example, say a quantitative analysis has determined that there is a correlation between length of stay and level of patient satisfaction, but why does this correlation exist? This dual-focus scenario shows one way in which qualitative and quantitative research could be integrated together.

Examples of Qualitative Research Approaches

Ethnography

Ethnography as a research design has its origins in social and cultural anthropology, and involves the researcher being directly immersed in the participant’s environment. [2] Through this immersion, the ethnographer can use a variety of data collection techniques with the aim of being able to produce a comprehensive account of the social phenomena that occurred during the research period. [2] That is to say, the researcher’s aim with ethnography is to immerse themselves into the research population and come out of it with accounts of actions, behaviors, events, etc. through the eyes of someone involved in the population. Direct involvement of the researcher with the target population is one benefit of ethnographic research because it can then be possible to find data that is otherwise very difficult to extract and record.

Grounded Theory

Grounded Theory is the “generation of a theoretical model through the experience of observing a study population and developing a comparative analysis of their speech and behavior.” [5] As opposed to quantitative research which is deductive and tests or verifies an existing theory, grounded theory research is inductive and therefore lends itself to research that is aiming to study social interactions or experiences. [3] [2] In essence, Grounded Theory’s goal is to explain for example how and why an event occurs or how and why people might behave a certain way. Through observing the population, a researcher using the Grounded Theory approach can then develop a theory to explain the phenomena of interest.

Phenomenology

Phenomenology is defined as the “study of the meaning of phenomena or the study of the particular”. [5] At first glance, it might seem that Grounded Theory and Phenomenology are quite similar, but upon careful examination, the differences can be seen. At its core, phenomenology looks to investigate experiences from the perspective of the individual. [2] Phenomenology is essentially looking into the ‘lived experiences’ of the participants and aims to examine how and why participants behaved a certain way, from their perspective . Herein lies one of the main differences between Grounded Theory and Phenomenology. Grounded Theory aims to develop a theory for social phenomena through an examination of various data sources whereas Phenomenology focuses on describing and explaining an event or phenomena from the perspective of those who have experienced it.

Narrative Research

One of qualitative research’s strengths lies in its ability to tell a story, often from the perspective of those directly involved in it. Reporting on qualitative research involves including details and descriptions of the setting involved and quotes from participants. This detail is called ‘thick’ or ‘rich’ description and is a strength of qualitative research. Narrative research is rife with the possibilities of ‘thick’ description as this approach weaves together a sequence of events, usually from just one or two individuals, in the hopes of creating a cohesive story, or narrative. [2] While it might seem like a waste of time to focus on such a specific, individual level, understanding one or two people’s narratives for an event or phenomenon can help to inform researchers about the influences that helped shape that narrative. The tension or conflict of differing narratives can be “opportunities for innovation”. [2]

Research Paradigm

Research paradigms are the assumptions, norms, and standards that underpin different approaches to research. Essentially, research paradigms are the ‘worldview’ that inform research. [4] It is valuable for researchers, both qualitative and quantitative, to understand what paradigm they are working within because understanding the theoretical basis of research paradigms allows researchers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the approach being used and adjust accordingly. Different paradigms have different ontology and epistemologies . Ontology is defined as the "assumptions about the nature of reality” whereas epistemology is defined as the “assumptions about the nature of knowledge” that inform the work researchers do. [2] It is important to understand the ontological and epistemological foundations of the research paradigm researchers are working within to allow for a full understanding of the approach being used and the assumptions that underpin the approach as a whole. Further, it is crucial that researchers understand their own ontological and epistemological assumptions about the world in general because their assumptions about the world will necessarily impact how they interact with research. A discussion of the research paradigm is not complete without describing positivist, postpositivist, and constructivist philosophies.

Positivist vs Postpositivist

To further understand qualitative research, we need to discuss positivist and postpositivist frameworks. Positivism is a philosophy that the scientific method can and should be applied to social as well as natural sciences. [4] Essentially, positivist thinking insists that the social sciences should use natural science methods in its research which stems from positivist ontology that there is an objective reality that exists that is fully independent of our perception of the world as individuals. Quantitative research is rooted in positivist philosophy, which can be seen in the value it places on concepts such as causality, generalizability, and replicability.

Conversely, postpositivists argue that social reality can never be one hundred percent explained but it could be approximated. [4] Indeed, qualitative researchers have been insisting that there are “fundamental limits to the extent to which the methods and procedures of the natural sciences could be applied to the social world” and therefore postpositivist philosophy is often associated with qualitative research. [4] An example of positivist versus postpositivist values in research might be that positivist philosophies value hypothesis-testing, whereas postpositivist philosophies value the ability to formulate a substantive theory.

Constructivist

Constructivism is a subcategory of postpositivism. Most researchers invested in postpositivist research are constructivist as well, meaning they think there is no objective external reality that exists but rather that reality is constructed. Constructivism is a theoretical lens that emphasizes the dynamic nature of our world. “Constructivism contends that individuals’ views are directly influenced by their experiences, and it is these individual experiences and views that shape their perspective of reality”. [6] Essentially, Constructivist thought focuses on how ‘reality’ is not a fixed certainty and experiences, interactions, and backgrounds give people a unique view of the world. Constructivism contends, unlike in positivist views, that there is not necessarily an ‘objective’ reality we all experience. This is the ‘relativist’ ontological view that reality and the world we live in are dynamic and socially constructed. Therefore, qualitative scientific knowledge can be inductive as well as deductive.” [4]

So why is it important to understand the differences in assumptions that different philosophies and approaches to research have? Fundamentally, the assumptions underpinning the research tools a researcher selects provide an overall base for the assumptions the rest of the research will have and can even change the role of the researcher themselves. [2] For example, is the researcher an ‘objective’ observer such as in positivist quantitative work? Or is the researcher an active participant in the research itself, as in postpositivist qualitative work? Understanding the philosophical base of the research undertaken allows researchers to fully understand the implications of their work and their role within the research, as well as reflect on their own positionality and bias as it pertains to the research they are conducting.

Data Sampling 

The better the sample represents the intended study population, the more likely the researcher is to encompass the varying factors at play. The following are examples of participant sampling and selection: [7]

  • Purposive sampling- selection based on the researcher’s rationale in terms of being the most informative.
  • Criterion sampling-selection based on pre-identified factors.
  • Convenience sampling- selection based on availability.
  • Snowball sampling- the selection is by referral from other participants or people who know potential participants.
  • Extreme case sampling- targeted selection of rare cases.
  • Typical case sampling-selection based on regular or average participants. 

Data Collection and Analysis

Qualitative research uses several techniques including interviews, focus groups, and observation. [1] [2] [3] Interviews may be unstructured, with open-ended questions on a topic and the interviewer adapts to the responses. Structured interviews have a predetermined number of questions that every participant is asked. It is usually one on one and is appropriate for sensitive topics or topics needing an in-depth exploration. Focus groups are often held with 8-12 target participants and are used when group dynamics and collective views on a topic are desired. Researchers can be a participant-observer to share the experiences of the subject or a non-participant or detached observer.

While quantitative research design prescribes a controlled environment for data collection, qualitative data collection may be in a central location or in the environment of the participants, depending on the study goals and design. Qualitative research could amount to a large amount of data. Data is transcribed which may then be coded manually or with the use of Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software or CAQDAS such as ATLAS.ti or NVivo. [8] [9] [10]

After the coding process, qualitative research results could be in various formats. It could be a synthesis and interpretation presented with excerpts from the data. [11] Results also could be in the form of themes and theory or model development.

Dissemination

To standardize and facilitate the dissemination of qualitative research outcomes, the healthcare team can use two reporting standards. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research or COREQ is a 32-item checklist for interviews and focus groups. [12] The Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) is a checklist covering a wider range of qualitative research. [13]

Examples of Application

Many times a research question will start with qualitative research. The qualitative research will help generate the research hypothesis which can be tested with quantitative methods. After the data is collected and analyzed with quantitative methods, a set of qualitative methods can be used to dive deeper into the data for a better understanding of what the numbers truly mean and their implications. The qualitative methods can then help clarify the quantitative data and also help refine the hypothesis for future research. Furthermore, with qualitative research researchers can explore subjects that are poorly studied with quantitative methods. These include opinions, individual's actions, and social science research.

A good qualitative study design starts with a goal or objective. This should be clearly defined or stated. The target population needs to be specified. A method for obtaining information from the study population must be carefully detailed to ensure there are no omissions of part of the target population. A proper collection method should be selected which will help obtain the desired information without overly limiting the collected data because many times, the information sought is not well compartmentalized or obtained. Finally, the design should ensure adequate methods for analyzing the data. An example may help better clarify some of the various aspects of qualitative research.

A researcher wants to decrease the number of teenagers who smoke in their community. The researcher could begin by asking current teen smokers why they started smoking through structured or unstructured interviews (qualitative research). The researcher can also get together a group of current teenage smokers and conduct a focus group to help brainstorm factors that may have prevented them from starting to smoke (qualitative research).

In this example, the researcher has used qualitative research methods (interviews and focus groups) to generate a list of ideas of both why teens start to smoke as well as factors that may have prevented them from starting to smoke. Next, the researcher compiles this data. The research found that, hypothetically, peer pressure, health issues, cost, being considered “cool,” and rebellious behavior all might increase or decrease the likelihood of teens starting to smoke.

The researcher creates a survey asking teen participants to rank how important each of the above factors is in either starting smoking (for current smokers) or not smoking (for current non-smokers). This survey provides specific numbers (ranked importance of each factor) and is thus a quantitative research tool.

The researcher can use the results of the survey to focus efforts on the one or two highest-ranked factors. Let us say the researcher found that health was the major factor that keeps teens from starting to smoke, and peer pressure was the major factor that contributed to teens to start smoking. The researcher can go back to qualitative research methods to dive deeper into each of these for more information. The researcher wants to focus on how to keep teens from starting to smoke, so they focus on the peer pressure aspect.

The researcher can conduct interviews and/or focus groups (qualitative research) about what types and forms of peer pressure are commonly encountered, where the peer pressure comes from, and where smoking first starts. The researcher hypothetically finds that peer pressure often occurs after school at the local teen hangouts, mostly the local park. The researcher also hypothetically finds that peer pressure comes from older, current smokers who provide the cigarettes.

The researcher could further explore this observation made at the local teen hangouts (qualitative research) and take notes regarding who is smoking, who is not, and what observable factors are at play for peer pressure of smoking. The researcher finds a local park where many local teenagers hang out and see that a shady, overgrown area of the park is where the smokers tend to hang out. The researcher notes the smoking teenagers buy their cigarettes from a local convenience store adjacent to the park where the clerk does not check identification before selling cigarettes. These observations fall under qualitative research.

If the researcher returns to the park and counts how many individuals smoke in each region of the park, this numerical data would be quantitative research. Based on the researcher's efforts thus far, they conclude that local teen smoking and teenagers who start to smoke may decrease if there are fewer overgrown areas of the park and the local convenience store does not sell cigarettes to underage individuals.

The researcher could try to have the parks department reassess the shady areas to make them less conducive to the smokers or identify how to limit the sales of cigarettes to underage individuals by the convenience store. The researcher would then cycle back to qualitative methods of asking at-risk population their perceptions of the changes, what factors are still at play, as well as quantitative research that includes teen smoking rates in the community, the incidence of new teen smokers, among others. [14] [15]

Qualitative research functions as a standalone research design or in combination with quantitative research to enhance our understanding of the world. Qualitative research uses techniques including structured and unstructured interviews, focus groups, and participant observation to not only help generate hypotheses which can be more rigorously tested with quantitative research but also to help researchers delve deeper into the quantitative research numbers, understand what they mean, and understand what the implications are.  Qualitative research provides researchers with a way to understand what is going on, especially when things are not easily categorized. [16]

  • Issues of Concern

As discussed in the sections above, quantitative and qualitative work differ in many different ways, including the criteria for evaluating them. There are four well-established criteria for evaluating quantitative data: internal validity, external validity, reliability, and objectivity. The correlating concepts in qualitative research are credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. [4] [11] The corresponding quantitative and qualitative concepts can be seen below, with the quantitative concept is on the left, and the qualitative concept is on the right:

  • Internal validity--- Credibility
  • External validity---Transferability
  • Reliability---Dependability
  • Objectivity---Confirmability

In conducting qualitative research, ensuring these concepts are satisfied and well thought out can mitigate potential issues from arising. For example, just as a researcher will ensure that their quantitative study is internally valid so should qualitative researchers ensure that their work has credibility.  

Indicators such as triangulation and peer examination can help evaluate the credibility of qualitative work.

  • Triangulation: Triangulation involves using multiple methods of data collection to increase the likelihood of getting a reliable and accurate result. In our above magic example, the result would be more reliable by also interviewing the magician, back-stage hand, and the person who "vanished." In qualitative research, triangulation can include using telephone surveys, in-person surveys, focus groups, and interviews as well as surveying an adequate cross-section of the target demographic.
  • Peer examination: Results can be reviewed by a peer to ensure the data is consistent with the findings.

‘Thick’ or ‘rich’ description can be used to evaluate the transferability of qualitative research whereas using an indicator such as an audit trail might help with evaluating the dependability and confirmability.

  • Thick or rich description is a detailed and thorough description of details, the setting, and quotes from participants in the research. [5] Thick descriptions will include a detailed explanation of how the study was carried out. Thick descriptions are detailed enough to allow readers to draw conclusions and interpret the data themselves, which can help with transferability and replicability.
  • Audit trail: An audit trail provides a documented set of steps of how the participants were selected and the data was collected. The original records of information should also be kept (e.g., surveys, notes, recordings).

One issue of concern that qualitative researchers should take into consideration is observation bias. Here are a few examples:

  • Hawthorne effect: The Hawthorne effect is the change in participant behavior when they know they are being observed. If a researcher was wanting to identify factors that contribute to employee theft and tells the employees they are going to watch them to see what factors affect employee theft, one would suspect employee behavior would change when they know they are being watched.
  • Observer-expectancy effect: Some participants change their behavior or responses to satisfy the researcher's desired effect. This happens in an unconscious manner for the participant so it is important to eliminate or limit transmitting the researcher's views.
  • Artificial scenario effect: Some qualitative research occurs in artificial scenarios and/or with preset goals. In such situations, the information may not be accurate because of the artificial nature of the scenario. The preset goals may limit the qualitative information obtained.
  • Clinical Significance

Qualitative research by itself or combined with quantitative research helps healthcare providers understand patients and the impact and challenges of the care they deliver. Qualitative research provides an opportunity to generate and refine hypotheses and delve deeper into the data generated by quantitative research. Qualitative research does not exist as an island apart from quantitative research, but as an integral part of research methods to be used for the understanding of the world around us. [17]

  • Enhancing Healthcare Team Outcomes

Qualitative research is important for all members of the health care team as all are affected by qualitative research. Qualitative research may help develop a theory or a model for health research that can be further explored by quantitative research.  Much of the qualitative research data acquisition is completed by numerous team members including social works, scientists, nurses, etc.  Within each area of the medical field, there is copious ongoing qualitative research including physician-patient interactions, nursing-patient interactions, patient-environment interactions, health care team function, patient information delivery, etc. 

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Disclosure: Steven Tenny declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Janelle Brannan declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Grace Brannan declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

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10 Best Research Books For Qualitative And Quantitative Research

Are you looking for the best research books? Take a look at some of the best books on research methods below.

Research methodology comes in many shapes and forms. Regardless of whether you are interested in qualitative or quantitative research, it is essential to find a book that can help you plan your research project adequately. Research design can vary from hard sciences to social sciences, but data analysis following a case study is usually similar. Therefore, you need a practical guide that can help you complete a research project and finish your research paper.

1. Qualitative Research: A Guide To Design And Implementation, 4th Edition

2. research design: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches, 4th edition, 3. the research methods knowledge base, 3rd edition, 4. the craft of research, 5. doing your research project: open up study skills, 5th edition, 6. qualitative inquiry and research design: choosing among five approaches, 3rd edition, 7. the essential guide to doing your research project, 2nd edition, 8. introducing research methodology: a beginner’s guide to doing a research project, 2nd edition, 9. the sage handbook of qualitative research, 5th edition, 10. research methods in education, 7th edition, the final word on the best research books, what is the difference between quantitative research and qualitative research, how do i figure out which academic journal to publish my research in, further reading.

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When someone talks about qualitative research in academia, they refer to research that focuses on overall concepts and takeaways instead of complex numbers. For those conducting academic research, understanding the basics of this process is critical. Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation, by Sharan B. Merriam and Elizabeth J. Tisdell, 4th edition, is one of the best books available because it focuses on action research, mixed methods, online data sources, and some of the latest technology that people can use to complete their projects.

A significant portion of this book focuses on data analysis software packages, which have become critically important in an era where publishing in the best academic journals is critical for every successful researcher. Finally, this book explains topics so that nearly everyone can understand.

Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation

  • Merriam, Sharan B. (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 368 Pages - 08/24/2015 (Publication Date) - John Wiley & Sons (Publisher)

Suppose you are looking for a book that can teach you the best research methodology. In that case, you will want to check out Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches by John W. Creswell, 4th edition. John Creswell is one of the most well-respected writers in case study research.

As books on how to research go, this one on quantitative and qualitative research methods is a great tool that will help you learn the basics of forming a research project in every field. This book covers philosophical assumptions and research projects, theory and research approaches, and conducts an effective literature review. These elements are also crucial in helping you form a step-by-step guide for your upcoming research project, and this book will teach you the basics of data analysis.

Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative and Mixed Methods Approaches

  • Research Design
  • Creswell, John W. (Author)
  • 273 Pages - 03/23/2024 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications, Inc (Publisher)

The first two editions were already solid, but the third edition of The Research Methods Knowledge Base, by William M.K. Trochim and James P. Donnelly, features many updates to quantitative and qualitative research methods, teaching graduate students the basics of data collection before diving into the details for more advanced learners.

One of the significant advantages of this text is that it is a comprehensive tool that can be used for both undergraduate and graduate-level courses. It has a relatively informal style and conversational feel, which means readers will not be intimidated by walls of text. The research methods it teaches are straightforward, applicable, and relevant to anyone looking to complete a research project in the current era.

The Research Methods Knowledge Base, 3rd Edition

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The Craft of Research, by Wayne C. Booth, Gregory C. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams, covers various research approaches that teach everyone the basics of forming a solid research project. In particular, this book focuses on what to do with the data after it has been collected.

People need to think about how their readers will interpret the structure of the paper, proactively anticipating questions they might have. By answering the reader’s questions in the initial version of the paper, it is easier to hold their attention from start to finish.

Of course, one of the most critical questions that must be asked when writing a research paper is, “so, what? Why does this information matter?” Researchers can keep this in mind while writing the introduction and conclusion of the paper so they will have an easier time constructing a powerful academic manuscript that is more likely to be accepted into the top academic journals.

The Craft of Research, Fourth Edition (Chicago Guides to Writing, Editing, and Publishing)

  • Booth, Wayne C. (Author)
  • 336 Pages - 10/18/2016 (Publication Date) - University of Chicago Press (Publisher)

Doing Your Research Project: Open Up Study Skills, by Judith Bell, is a must-read for new researchers looking to make their way in academic research. This book is helpful because it teaches people how to conduct a research project using step-by-step advice. A research project can be daunting for new learners because it’s easy to focus on the final project and feel intimidated before taking the first step.

This book is indispensable because it teaches people everything they need to know to develop a research project, draft a hypothesis, carry out the project, and finalize a research paper after conducting detailed data analysis. Furthermore, this text will dive into common mistakes, pitfalls, and obstacles researchers need to overcome. Time is your most valuable resource, and nobody wants to spend time on trials that will not be relevant to the final project.

Doing Youp Research Project (Open Up Study Skills)

  • Bell, Judith (Author)
  • 296 Pages - 05/01/2010 (Publication Date) - Open University Press (Publisher)

Qualitative Inquiry And Research Design: Choose Among Five Approaches, 3rd Edition, Is The Latest In A Line Of Best-Selling Research Books From Creswell. This Book Ties Into People’s Philosophical Underpinnings When Developing A Research Project. It Also Looks At The History Of Various Research Projects, Which Serve As An Example For The Reader.

Overall, there are five traditions in qualitative research; grounded theory, phenomenology, narrative research, case study, and ethnography. Creswell uses an accessible writing style to help the reader understand when to use each of these narratives. Then, he dives into strategies for writing research papers using each of these approaches.

Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches

  • Used Book in Good Condition
  • 472 Pages - 03/14/2012 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications, Inc (Publisher)

The Essential Guide To Doing Your Research Project by Zina O’Leary is geared more toward young learners. As books on how to research, it focuses on how to develop a research project, analyze data, and write up the results. Every stage of the book is clearly explained, with the author specifying why it is essential to carry out that step correctly.

It also focuses on practical tips and tricks that learners can use to successfully carry out their research projects. The book includes helpful chapter summaries, a complete glossary, and boxed definitions for essential terms that should not be overlooked. The author also has a variety of suggestions for further reading, which is helpful for more advanced learners who may want to pick up a text that is a bit more detailed. Finally, the book also comes with access to a companion website. The website includes journal articles, real projects, worksheets, and podcasts.

The Essential Guide to Doing Your Research Project

  • O′Leary, Zina (Author)
  • 384 Pages - 12/20/2013 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications Ltd (Publisher)

Introducing Research Methodology: A Beginner’s Guide to doing a research project, by Uwe Flick is ideal for new researchers. the author guides readers through the fundamentals that underpin a strong research project. He focuses on essential steps, common mistakes, and ways to expedite the research process.

Then, the author dives into some of the most critical skills readers need to have if they want to collect and analyze data properly. he goes into basic organizational tactics that make data easier to interpret, explains how to shorten the analytical process, and dives into real-life quantitative and qualitative research methods. He uses his research as an example, explaining to people how to pull out the essential parts of the research project before writing them up.

Introducing Research Methodology: A Beginner′s Guide to Doing a Research Project

  • Flick, Uwe (Author)
  • 320 Pages - 04/14/2015 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications Ltd (Publisher)

The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research by Norman K. Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln focuses on global research. this text teaches readers how to synthesize existing literature, identify current research, and focus on caps that can be filled. the authors gather contributions from some of the most well-renowned researchers, addressing issues in research projects today. this text focuses more on research regarding social justice. therefore, this is better for people in the social sciences.

The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research

  • Hardcover Book
  • 992 Pages - 02/15/2017 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications, Inc (Publisher)

Research Methods in Education, by Louis Cohen, Lawrence Manon, and Keith Morrison, is essential for students and professional researchers who want to learn how to create a comprehensive research project. It’s broken up into helpful chapters wrapped up by a convenient summary at the end, explaining to readers how to hit the high points.

Research Methods in Education also comes with a helpful companion website that contains PowerPoint slides for every chapter. This book can be read independently and discussed with a classroom full of students. The book has been written at a level that is accessible even to high school students, but the basics can be a helpful review for graduate researchers.

Research Methods in Education

  • Cohen, Louis (Author)
  • 944 Pages - 10/27/2017 (Publication Date) - Routledge (Publisher)

Academic research comes in many shapes and forms, with qualitative and quantitative research having high points; however, the basics are the same across all fields. Researchers need to learn how to develop a hypothesis, put together a research methodology, collect their data, interpret it, and write up their findings.

It can be helpful to use the books about research above to refine your research methods . Each book focuses on a slightly different facet of academic research, so readers need to find the right book to meet their needs. With a substantial text, readers can avoid common mistakes, follow in the footsteps of successful researchers, and increase their chances of writing a solid research paper for school or getting their paper accepted into an academic journal.

Books About Research FAQs

Quantitative research focuses more on numbers and statistics. This type of research is more common in hard sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics.

Qualitative research focuses more on overall meanings and concepts. This type of research is more common in social sciences such as anthropology, archaeology, and research topics focusing on social justice.

It would help compare prior articles in that academic journal to the article you have written. Most academic journals focus on a specific field, and you need to submit your article to a publication that shares research articles similar to your own. Be sure to consider the prestige of the journal before submitting your paper.

If you enjoyed this round-up of the best research books, you might also like our top 11 essay writing tips for students . 

You might also find our guide on essay topics for students  helpful. 

qualitative research methodology book

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  1. The Oxford Handbook of Qualitative Research

    The final section offers a commentary about politics and research and the move toward public scholarship. The Oxford Handbook of Qualitative Research is intended for students of all levels, faculty, and researchers across the social sciences. Keywords: qualitative research, museum studies, disaster studies, data analysis, assessment, ethical ...

  2. The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research

    The substantially updated and revised Fifth Edition of this landmark handbook presents the state-of-the-art theory and practice of qualitative inquiry. Representing top scholars from around the world, the editors and contributors continue the tradition of synthesizing existing literature, defining the present, and shaping the future of qualitative research.

  3. Qualitative Research Methods: A Practice-Oriented Introduction

    The book aims at achieving e ects in three domains: (a) the. personal, (b) the scholarly, and (c) the practical. The personal goal. is to demystify qualitative methods, give readers a feel for ...

  4. The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research

    Preview. This new edition of the SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research represents the sixth generation of the ongoing conversation about the discipline, practice, and conduct of qualitative inquiry. As with earlier editions, the Sixth Edition is virtually a new volume, with 27 of the 34 chapters representing new topics or approaches not seen in ...

  5. Qualitative Research

    Qualitative Research. David Silverman. SAGE Publications, Dec 2, 2020 - Reference - 520 pages. Written by leaders of qualitative methodology, this book provides up-to-date and interdisciplinary insight into a range of qualitative methods. Bringing together different perspectives, contributors discuss theoretical underpinnings of these methods ...

  6. Qualitative Research

    The new edition of this book includes a more prominently-placed and expanded discussion of research ethics as crucial to students' inquiry, more information on reflexivity in data collection and individual methods for qualitative data collection, a more in-depth chapter on coding and other types of qualitative data analysis, and more thorough ...

  7. Qualitative Research Methods

    Qualitative Research Methods. Monique Hennink, Inge Hutter, Ajay Bailey. SAGE Publications, Jan 9, 2020 - Education - 376 pages. Practical and straightforward, this book is a multidisciplinary introduction to the process of planning, conducting and analysing qualitative research, from selecting appropriate methods to publishing your findings.

  8. The Oxford Handbook of Qualitative Research

    Abstract. The Oxford Handbook of Qualitative Research, second edition, presents a comprehensive retrospective and prospective review of the field of qualitative research. Original, accessible chapters written by interdisciplinary leaders in the field make this a critical reference work. Filled with robust examples from real-world research ...

  9. Qualitative Research Methods: Collecting Evidence, Crafting Analysis

    THE DEFINITIVE STEP-BY-STEP RESOURCE FOR QUALITATIVE AND ETHNOGRAPHIC RESEARCH. Qualitative Research Methods: Collecting Evidence, Crafting Analysis, Communicating Impact is a comprehensive guide on both the theoretical foundations and practical application of qualitative methodology. Adopting a phronetic-iterative approach, this foundational book leads readers through the chronological ...

  10. Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation

    Praise for the Third Edition of Qualitative Research: "Sharan B. Merriam synthesizes twenty years of developments in qualitative research with clarity and acumen."?Michael Quinn Patton, author, Qualitative Research and Evaluation Methods "Here is a qualitative research methods book that reinforces the connection between professional experience and qualitative inquiry."

  11. Qualitative Research Methods

    Preview. Practical and straightforward, this book is a multidisciplinary introduction to the process of planning, conducting and analysing qualitative research, from selecting appropriate methods to publishing your findings. Built around the authors' Qualitative Research Cycle - consisting of the design, data collection and analytic cycles ...

  12. PDF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS

    QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS 00_HENNINK_2E_FM.indd 3 06/12/2019 5:20:48 PM. SAGE Publications Ltd 1 Oliver's Yard 55 City Road London EC1Y 1SP ... 1 Introduction to the Book 3 2 The Nature of Qualitative Research and our Approach 9 PART I The Design Cycle 26 3 Qualitative Research Design 29

  13. Qualitative Research in Psychology, Second Edition

    Qualitative methods of research contribute valuable information to our understanding and expanding knowledge of psychological phenomena. This updated edition of Qualitative Research in Psychology builds upon the groundwork laid by its acclaimed predecessor, bringing together a diverse group of scholars to illuminate the value that qualitative methods bring to studying psychological phenomena ...

  14. Qualitative Methodology : A Practical Guide

    Qualitative Methodology. : Jane Mills, Melanie Birks. SAGE, Jan 20, 2014 - Social Science - 288 pages. Fresh, insightful and clear, this exciting textbook provides an engaging introduction to the application of qualitative methodology in the real world. Expert researchers then trace the history and philosophical underpinnings of different ...

  15. Foundations of Qualitative Research

    This text is designed for advanced undergraduate and graduate students taking their first or second qualitative research methods course in the fields of Education, Psychology, and the Health and Social Sciences. It is also an excellent theory companion supplement to the more applied qualitative methods text. Available Formats.

  16. Qualitative Research Methods 2nd Edition

    Qualitative Research Methods. $45.71. (36) Only 5 left in stock - order soon. Practical and straightforward, this book is a multidisciplinary introduction to the process of planning, conducting and analysing qualitative research, from selecting appropriate methods to publishing your findings. Built around the authors' Qualitative Research ...

  17. Qualitative Research

    Features. Preview. Written by leaders of qualitative methodology and edited by one of the biggest names in the field, this book provides up-to-date and interdisciplinary insight into a range of qualitative methods. Bringing together different perspectives, contributors discuss theoretical underpinnings of these methods before taking readers ...

  18. PDF Qualitative Research

    he qualitative research methods introduced in this book are often employed to answer the whys and hows of human behavior, opinion, and experience— information that is difficult to obtain through more quantitatively-oriented methods of data collection. Researchers and practitioners in fields as diverse as

  19. 12 Good Books On Qualitative Research

    Here are my picks for best books on qualitative research: 1. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches, by John W. Creswell and J. David Creswell. This widely recognized book offers a comprehensive study of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research methodologies. Its distinguishing feature is its juxtaposition ...

  20. Planning Qualitative Research: Design and Decision Making for New

    While many books and articles guide various qualitative research methods and analyses, there is currently no concise resource that explains and differentiates among the most common qualitative approaches. We believe novice qualitative researchers, students planning the design of a qualitative study or taking an introductory qualitative research course, and faculty teaching such courses can ...

  21. Qualitative Study

    Qualitative research is a type of research that explores and provides deeper insights into real-world problems.[1] Instead of collecting numerical data points or intervene or introduce treatments just like in quantitative research, qualitative research helps generate hypotheses as well as further investigate and understand quantitative data. Qualitative research gathers participants ...

  22. 10 Best Research Books For Qualitative And Quantitative Research

    Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation. Merriam, Sharan B. (Author) English (Publication Language) 368 Pages - 08/24/2015 (Publication Date) - John Wiley & Sons (Publisher) Buy on Amazon. 2. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, And Mixed Methods Approaches, 4th Edition. Suppose you are looking for a book that can ...