Qualitative Research An Alternative to the Numbers Game

But First, More Numbers

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Lecture/Break Qualitative Data More discussions – whole class and small groups I wish we had shorter breaks and got out 15 minutes earlier Class has seemed a bit rushed and stressful for me so far … too much too fast for beginning researchers Make PowerPoints available on line.

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Exam Qualitative Data Exam  Poorly written test questions  Instructor should more clearly formulate questions to tests  Weed out weird questions on exam  Tests that are more compatible with assignments  I think the tests should incorporate short answer q’s along with the multiple choice, because different people take tests differently  Lower weight on exams for total grade  Work with test material – review before test  Lots of contradictions between text and prof lecture  Didn’t learn anything from test, I was too concerned about memorization  The test should include lecture, or else why are we here? (ex. Syphilis study)

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Syllabus Qualitative Data Syllabus dates and assignments are confusing Create clear format for homework I’m unclear about when weekly assignments are due and what reading corresponds with which date. Syllabus is too long and confusing

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Assignments Qualitative Data Allow late assignments Clearer communication on assignments Too much homework Too many assignments, not explained all that well Material can be overwhelming Feels like its more about getting the assignments in than understanding what to do. Clarity on due dates and assignments More detailed help with homework

Other You are an enjoyable prof, it’s unfortunate your topic of specialty is of little interest to me.

Qualitative Research “A mile deep and an inch wide”  Depth vs. Breadth: the generalizability question  Subjectivity vs. Objectivity: the reality question Appropriate areas of research (p. 430)  Descriptive research – initial research  Any research where you want to get a “flavor” rather than or in addition to quantities  Complex systems that resist quantitative evaluation

Researcher Roles and Methods Observer Participant Participant – Observer Structured Interview Naturalistic Inquiry Open-ended Interview Ethical implications? (p. 464) Logistical implications

Paradigms or models (p. 434) “Naturalism”  Flavor of the topic Grounded Theory  Sampling full variety of topic – patterns Participatory Action Research  Researcher as social action catalyst Case Studies

Sampling Issues Sampling for Qualitative Research: Oxymoron? Examples of Sampling  Quota  Snowball  Deviant case(s)

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