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Qualitative Research Methods

Gerben Moerman

4.6

Based on 1,369 ratings

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Gerben Moerman

In this course you will be introduced to the basic ideas behind the qualitative research in social science. You will learn about data collection, description, analysis and interpretation in qualitative research. Qualitative research often involves an iterative process. We will focus on the ingredients required for this process: data collection and analysis.

You won't learn how to use qualitative methods by just watching video's, so we put much stress on collecting data through observation and interviewing and on analysing and interpreting the collected data in other assignments.

Obviously, the most important concepts in qualitative research will be discussed, just as we will discuss quality criteria, good practices, ethics, writing some methods of analysis, and mixing methods.

We hope to take away some prejudice, and enthuse many students for qualitative research.

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Syllabus

Philosophy of Qualitative Research

Welcome to the first week of the course. We start with an introduction, followed by two lessons on the Philosophy of Qualitative Research.

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Examines the philosophy of qualitative research, which is standard in social science

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in qualitative research methods

Develops skills in data collection through observation and interviewing, which are core skills for social science researchers

Taught by Gerben Moerman, who is recognized for his work in qualitative research

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Reviews summary

Foundational qualitative research skills

According to learners, this course offers a solid introduction to qualitative research methods, particularly for those new to the field. Many appreciate its practical application approach, emphasizing data collection through observation and interviewing, with hands-on assignments that help solidify understanding. The instructor's explanations are often clear, making complex concepts accessible. However, some students find the pace too slow for experienced researchers and note that certain sections, like qualitative analysis, could benefit from more in-depth coverage. The peer review process receives mixed feedback, with some finding it inconsistent. Despite minor critiques, it's widely regarded as a foundational course for gaining essential qualitative research skills.

Recent reviews suggest improved clarity and relevance.

"This course provided a comprehensive introduction to qualitative research methods. The instructor's explanations were very clear..."

"Excellent course! The philosophy section was particularly insightful, and the practical assignments on observation and interviewing really cemented my learning."

"Honestly, I was disappointed. The course felt outdated and the presentation quality was low."

Instructor is knowledgeable, providing clear and accessible lessons.

"The instructor's explanations were very clear, and the assignments... were highly beneficial..."

"This course is fantastic... The instructor is knowledgeable and presents complex ideas clearly."

"The lectures were informative, but sometimes lacked engagement. Could be improved with more instructor feedback."

Emphasizes hands-on data collection and analysis skills.

"I particularly enjoyed the focus on practical application, which helped me understand how to conduct actual research."

"The practical assignments on observation and interviewing really cemented my learning."

"I appreciate the practical assignments, although I wish there were more examples of complex data analysis."

"I liked the practical focus of this course. Learning by doing was effective."

An excellent introduction for newcomers to qualitative research.

"This course provided a comprehensive introduction to qualitative research methods."

"Good course for beginners. It covers the basics well and I liked the focus on ethical considerations."

"This course is fantastic for anyone new to qualitative research."

"Overall, a useful course to get started."

Peer assessments are a key component but quality varies.

"I found the peer review process frustrating at times. Some feedback was not constructive, and it felt like a significant portion of the grade depended on others' subjective assessments."

"I felt the peer review assignments, while good in theory, could be hit or miss depending on the quality of peers."

"The peer assessments were unreliable, and I didn't feel I learned much beyond what I could find in a textbook."

"The assignments, especially the peer reviews, were highly beneficial for hands-on learning."

Offers a solid overview but may lack advanced depth.

"I felt some parts were a bit superficial and could have gone into more depth, especially the analysis section."

"It's a great starting point but you'll need to supplement with other materials for advanced understanding."

"I found the pace too slow for someone with prior exposure to research methods. It's very much for absolute beginners..."

"I particularly struggled with the qualitative analysis section, it didn't feel adequately explained for practical application without additional resources."

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 Qualitative Research Methods with these activities:

Review 'Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation'

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Get familiar with different approaches and methods in qualitative research.

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Find a copy of the book.
Read chapters 1-3.
Summarize key concepts from each chapter.

Practice observing social situations

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Develop your observation skills by regularly practicing.

Browse courses on Social Science

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Choose a social situation to observe.
Write down a list of things to observe.
Observe the situation and take notes.
Write a summary of your observations.

Write memos on your observations and interviews

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Make the best of your notes by restructuring them into a memo

Browse courses on Observation

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Review your notes from your observations and interviews.
Identify the key points that you want to make.
Write a memo that summarizes your key points.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Conduct qualitative interviews

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Improve your interviewing skills by practicing with real people

Browse courses on Interviewing

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Find someone who is willing to be interviewed.
Prepare a list of questions to ask.
Conduct the interview and take notes.
Write a summary of your interview.

Form a peer group for feedback on observation

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Work with your peers to get feedback on your observation skills. In the peer group, you will be able to share your observations and get suggestions for improvement.

Browse courses on Interviewing

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Find a group of peers who are also taking the course.
Meet with your group regularly to discuss your observations.
Give each other feedback on your observations.

Review 'Interpretive Research Design: Concepts and Applications'

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Supplement your understanding of data analysis and interpretation

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Find a copy of the book.
Read Chapters 4-6.
Summarize key concepts from each chapter.

Create a presentation on your research findings

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Solidify your understanding by creating a comprehensive presentation of your findings.

Browse courses on Qualitative Research

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Review your memos and identify your main findings.
Create a presentation that summarizes your findings.
Present your findings to your peers or to the class.

Career center

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

Qualitative Researcher

Qualitative Researchers design and conduct qualitative research studies. They collect and analyze data from interviews, observations, and other sources to understand human behavior and social phenomena. This course will help build a foundation in the foundational elements of qualitative research, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation. By taking this course, you will be prepared to conduct your own qualitative research studies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Qualitative Researcher

Sociologist

Sociologists study human society and social behavior. They examine the origins, development, organizations, and institutions of society. This course will introduce you to the basic ideas behind the qualitative research in social science. Learning about methods for qualitative research, such as observation and interviewing, will be particularly helpful for this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sociologist

Psychologist

Psychologists study the mind and behavior. They work in a variety of settings, such as schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practice. This course will help build a foundation in qualitative research methods, which can be used to collect data on people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This is essential for understanding how people think and behave.

See salaries and explore the career path for Psychologist

Market Researcher

Market Researchers study the market in order to determine product viability, sales trends, and the effectiveness of marketing campaigns. This course will introduce you to the foundational elements of qualitative research, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation. By understanding how to gather and analyze data, you can develop insights that will help businesses develop and market their products and services.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Documentarian

Documentarians research, write, and produce documentaries. They use a variety of media, including film, video, and audio, to tell stories and share information. This course will introduce you to the basic ideas behind the qualitative research in social science. Learning about methods for qualitative research, such as observation and interviewing, will be particularly helpful for understanding how to gather and analyze data for documentaries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Documentarian

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research, analyze, and make policy recommendations on current issues. These policies impact the public, so it is important to understand people's needs and motivations. This course provides a theoretical background in qualitative research methods that will help you collect, interpret, and analyze data about people's perspectives. This can build a foundation for you to understand the impact of certain policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Journalist

Journalists research, analyze, and report on news and current events. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or television and radio stations. This course will provide foundational knowledge in qualitative research methods, which will help you learn how to gather and analyze data from interviews and observations. This can be particularly helpful for investigative journalism, where you must gather and analyze data from a variety of sources.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Museum curator

Museum Curators plan and oversee the acquisition, care, and display of museum collections. They conduct research on the collections and develop educational programs for the public. This course will introduce you to the basic ideas behind the qualitative research in social science. Learning about methods for qualitative research, such as observation and interviewing, will be particularly helpful for understanding how visitors interact with museum exhibits.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

Urban Planner

Urban Planners develop plans and policies for the use of land and the development of communities. They work with architects, engineers, and other professionals to design and implement plans for the physical development of cities and towns. This course will provide foundational knowledge in qualitative research methods, which can be used to collect data on community needs and preferences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Anthropologist

Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. They examine the cultures, languages, archaeological remains, and physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world. This course may be useful for learning how to conduct qualitative research in the field, which is essential for anthropologists who study preindustrial societies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Anthropologist

Teacher

Teachers plan, develop, and implement curriculum and instructional materials to facilitate learning. They instruct students in a variety of academic subjects and monitor and assess student progress. This course will help build a foundation in qualitative research methods, which can be used to collect data on student learning and to evaluate the effectiveness of teaching methods.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Human Resources Manager

Human Resources Managers plan, develop, and implement policies and programs that relate to employees, which includes hiring and training staff, overseeing employee benefits, and working to maintain positive employee relations. This course will help build a foundation in qualitative research methods, which can be used to collect data on employee satisfaction or to evaluate the effectiveness of policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager

Archivist

Archivists acquire, preserve, and make accessible historical documents and artifacts. They work in a variety of settings, such as libraries, museums, and government agencies. This course may be useful for learning how to conduct qualitative research on archival materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist

Nonprofit Manager

Nonprofit Managers plan, organize, and direct the activities of nonprofit organizations. They develop and implement programs and services, manage staff, and raise funds. This course may be useful for learning how to conduct qualitative research to evaluate the effectiveness of programs and services.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Manager

Social Worker

Social Workers help people navigate problems that are rooted in societal structures and interpersonal relationships. They work with individuals, families, groups, and communities to address issues such as poverty, mental illness, and addiction. This course may be helpful for learning how to observe and interview people from a variety of backgrounds and with a variety of needs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Qualitative Research Methods.

The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research

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A massive volume that provides in-depth coverage of qualitative research methodologies, theories, and applications. Serves as an essential reference for researchers.

The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research

Kindle Edition

$$$

Doing Qualitative Research

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Provides a comprehensive overview of the qualitative research process, from design to analysis and interpretation. Commonly used as a textbook in academic institutions.

Qualitative Research Methods

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What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Foundational qualitative research skills

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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