Observational Methods and Qualitative Data Analysis from Coursera

This is primarily aimed at first- and second-year undergraduates interested in psychology, data analysis, and qualtitative research methods along with high school students and professionals with similar interests.

This course delves into the qualitative research traditions of ethnographic inquiry and case study in psychology, emphasizing the use of participant observation. Students will explore the unique practices, data gathering and analysis methods, and researcher involvement in these traditions. This course explores the interviewing methods used in qualitative research in psychology. The course emphasizes the importance of researcher positionality and the distinctive characteristics of ethnography and case study. Students then learn to apply basic qualitative data analysis (QDA) techniques to the data gathered. The course also covers the utility of observation in understanding context, identifying tacit patterns, and providing direct personal experience and knowledge. It further discusses the role of coding in data analysis, including initial, focused, and axial coding. The course concludes with a look at how to move from categorization to interpretive representation in QDA. This comprehensive exploration prepares students to conduct their own qualitative research, equipped with a deep understanding of various research traditions and methodologies.

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Syllabus

Learn With PsycLearn Essentials

This module introduces you to your PsycLearn Essentials course. Find out what’s included in this course and how to navigate the modules and lessons. You’ll also learn valuable study tips for successful learning.

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Explores ethnographic inquiry and case study, which are standard in psychology research

Taught by Mike Stadler, PhD, who is recognized for their work in psychology

Covers qualitative data analysis, which is highly relevant in qualitative research

Develops research skills, which are core for psychology students

Emphasizes researcher positionality, which is essential for qualitative research

Requires students to come in with some background knowledge in psychology

Reviews summary

Solid introduction to qualitative research methods

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in qualitative research methods, particularly for beginners and undergraduates. Many commend its clear explanations of topics like ethnographic inquiry and case studies. However, a significant number found the qualitative data analysis section to be strictly introductory, often expecting more in-depth or practical application. While excellent for a first look, it may feel too basic for those with prior experience.

Explanations simplify complex concepts for learners.

"The content was well-structured, and the examples provided made complex concepts easy to grasp."

"The explanations of ethnographic inquiry and case studies were thorough."

"The instructor's explanations were clear, and the structure helped me grasp difficult concepts easily."

Builds solid foundational knowledge for new researchers.

"This course was a fantastic introduction to qualitative research, especially observational methods and case studies."

"It built a solid foundation without overwhelming me. Highly recommend for beginners!"

"A solid foundation... for true beginners, it's perfect."

"I loved how this course broke down complex ideas into digestible modules. This course is a must for psychology undergrads starting their research journey."

Emphasizes theory over practical software application.

"I was hoping for more practical application or deeper dives into data analysis software. It's very theoretical."

"The 'practice' seemed limited. Maybe better for high school students than for working professionals who need direct skills."

"I wish there were more hands-on activities for QDA, but overall, it delivers what it promises for an introductory course."

Provides a broad overview, not advanced expertise.

"I found the section on advanced coding techniques a bit brief. It's truly an 'introduction,' so don't expect to become an expert."

"Disappointing. I expected more advanced qualitative data analysis techniques, not just an introduction."

"The depth on QDA was limited to initial and focused coding, not much on advanced interpretive representation. It aligns with the description of 'elementary' but I wanted more."

"If you already know the basics, this won't offer much. The course name implies a bit more than it delivers."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Observational Methods and Qualitative Data Analysis with these activities:

Read "The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research"

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Reading this comprehensive handbook will provide you with an in-depth understanding of qualitative research methods and prepare you for the course content.

View Interpretive Autoethnography on Amazon

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Purchase or borrow the book "The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research".
Read the book thoroughly, paying attention to the different qualitative research approaches, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.
Take notes and highlight important passages.
Discuss the book's key concepts with your classmates or peers.

Review Social Sciences knowledge

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Reviewing knowledge in the Social Sciences will help you prepare for the course by providing a strong foundation in the field.

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Review course notes or textbooks from prior Social Sciences classes.
Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your knowledge.

Coding Drills

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Completing coding drills will improve your data analysis skills and prepare you for the more complex coding tasks you will encounter in this course.

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Use online coding platforms to practice coding drills.
Solve coding puzzles or challenges.

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Practice qualitative methods

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Practicing qualitative methods will help you develop the skills necessary for conducting research in this field.

Browse courses on Qualitative Research

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Read articles or books on qualitative methods.
Conduct mock interviews or observations.

Join a study group

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Joining a study group will provide you with an opportunity to discuss the course material with your peers and reinforce your understanding.

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Find a study group or create your own with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss course material, work on assignments, and prepare for exams.

Create a research proposal

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Creating a research proposal will allow you to synthesize your knowledge of qualitative research methods and develop a plan for conducting your own research.

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Identify a research topic and develop a research question.
Review relevant literature to support your research proposal.
Design a research methodology that outlines your research methods, data collection techniques, and data analysis plan.
Write a research proposal that clearly articulates your research plan.

Volunteer in a related field

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Volunteering in a related field will allow you to gain practical experience and apply your knowledge in a real-world setting.

Browse courses on Psychology

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Identify organizations or institutions that are conducting research in qualitative methods or related fields.
Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Attend volunteer training and orientation sessions.
Assist researchers with data collection, analysis, or other research-related tasks.
Reflect on your experience and identify ways to apply what you have learned in your coursework.

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Learners who complete Observational Methods and Qualitative Data Analysis will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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Observational Methods and Qualitative Data Analysis

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Reviews summary

Solid introduction to qualitative research methods

Activities

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