We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
Coursera logo

What is Qualitative Research?

Mike Stadler, PhD

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

Read more

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

This introduction to qualitative research in psychology provides an in-depth exploration of individuals' lived experiences through methods like interviews and observations. It delves into the historical, philosophical, and cross-disciplinary foundations of qualitative research, illustrating these foundations with a variety of examples, activities, and self-assessments. The course aims to foster an understanding of how qualitative inquiry adds depth and nuance to our comprehension of individual and collective human experiences. It addresses the common critiques of qualitative research and introduces the four trustworthiness criteria that researchers use in evaluating the soundness of a given qualitative study. The course also emphasizes the role of the researcher and the close relationships between the inquirer and participants in qualitative studies.

Enroll now

What's inside

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.
Read more
Introduction
Introduction to Qualitative Research
Standards of Rigor in Qualitative Research
In the world of qualitative research, notions like validity and reliability often take on new forms. Researchers must not project one set of traditional meanings onto another, in that you cannot analyze qualitative research by quantitative standards. So what do we mean by qualitative standards of rigor? It is about making certain that the qualitative process and outcomes emulate participants’ lived experiences.
Cumulative Quiz
Complete the final course assessment.
PsycLearn Essentials APA Student Resources
This module provides a variety of information and tools from the American Psychological Association (APA) that will help inspire you as you complete your coursework and plan your career goals. Get discounted access to Academic Writer, APA’s online tool for writing effectively, as well as valuable advice that will help you develop and strengthen your skillset for learning success and future employment. Additionally, explore resources on various psychological issues. This module also includes APA resources on scholarly research and writing; a list of sites providing valuable resources on diversity, equity, and inclusion in psychology education and in the professional community; resources on a career in psychology; and links to career opportunities at the APA. You can also view videos that offer tips on dealing with stress.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops expertise in qualitative research methods, which are fundamental for psychology students and professionals
Explores the nuances of qualitative research, providing a deep understanding of lived experiences
Addresses common critiques of qualitative research, equipping learners with a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and limitations
Provides a solid foundation in qualitative research for high school students seeking to advance their knowledge in psychology
Introduces the concept of trustworthiness criteria, enabling learners to evaluate the soundness of qualitative studies
Taught by Dr. Mike Stadler, a reputable expert in qualitative research, assuring learners of high-quality instruction

Save this course

Save What is Qualitative Research? to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save

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 What is Qualitative Research? with these activities:
Review Key Concepts from Psychology
Refresh your understanding of fundamental psychological concepts to enhance your understanding of the course material.
Show steps
  • Go over your notes or textbooks from previous psychology courses
  • Review online resources or articles to refresh your memory on key theories and concepts
Review Data Analysis Techniques
Sharpen your foundational skills in data analysis to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on Data Analysis
Show steps
  • Review statistical concepts and methods
  • Practice analyzing data using software or online tools
Explore Online Resources
Supplement your learning with videos, tutorials, and articles from reputable sources.
Browse courses on Online Learning
Show steps
  • Identify reputable websites and platforms
  • Search for tutorials and videos on specific topics covered in the course
  • Review and take notes on the material presented
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Read 'Qualitative Research in Psychology' by Flick
Gain in-depth knowledge of qualitative research principles and methodologies.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book
  • Read the chapters relevant to the course topics
  • Take notes and summarize key concepts
Practice Interviewing
Reinforce your understanding of the interviewing process and hone your skills.
Browse courses on Interviewing Techniques
Show steps
  • Identify a friend or family member to role-play with
  • Prepare a list of common interview questions
  • Take turns practicing different types of interviews, such as informational, behavioral, and technical
Organize and Summarize Course Materials
Enhance your understanding and retention by organizing and reviewing your course materials.
Show steps
  • Review lecture notes, readings, and assignments
  • Create summaries and outlines to consolidate your knowledge
  • Organize your materials into a logical structure for easy reference
Develop a Case Study Analysis
Apply qualitative research methods to analyze a real-world scenario, deepening your understanding.
Browse courses on Case Study Analysis
Show steps
  • Select a case study that aligns with course topics
  • Conduct thorough research and gather data
  • Analyze the data using qualitative methods, such as thematic analysis or grounded theory
  • Draw conclusions and present your findings

Career center

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

Reading list

We haven't picked any books for this reading list yet.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to What is Qualitative Research?.
Qualitative Research in Psychology
Most relevant
Observational Methods and Qualitative Data Analysis
Most relevant
Interviewing Methods
Most relevant
Qualitative Research
Most relevant
Why Experience Matters: Qualitative Research
Most relevant
Qualitative Research Design
Most relevant
Quantitative and Qualitative Research for Beginners
Most relevant
Introduction to Psychology | 心理学概论
Most relevant
AP® Psychology - Course 1: What is Psychology?
Most relevant
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser