Why do qualitative researchers need a guide?

Especially in the social sciences, the qualitative research process lives in the minds of researchers. Quantitative data in the natural sciences can be largely processed by technology, but qualitative research often involves human interaction and interpretation to collect and analyze data. As qualitative research is characterized by its exploratory, interpretive, and context-sensitive nature, it is essential for qualitative researchers to have a guide that provides clear and concise information on the key concepts, methodologies, and best practices for conducting research in this field. Let's examine some of the important tasks that qualitative researchers face and that this guide can address.

Navigate the various qualitative research methods and techniques

This guide provides an overview of the different approaches available, helping researchers to select the most appropriate methods for their specific research questions and contexts.

Qualitative research has a multitude of theoretical, methodological, and analytical approaches that a researcher should consider when planning and conducting a research study. When dealing with social phenomena, cultural practices, or personal beliefs, certain choices in study design are more appropriate than others. This guide will outline the key essentials that are commonly found throughout qualitative research so that you can make fully informed decisions.

Ensure rigor and trustworthiness

Research is always about getting to the key insights found through the organization of raw data. However, researchers carry a particular responsibility to transparently outline how those insights are identified. Rigorous research should not only detail the essential findings but persuade the audience that the findings are built on sound research study design and empirical data collection and analysis, which are important concepts that are emphasized throughout this guide.

Develop essential skills

The information in this guide will support researchers in honing their interviewing, observation, and data analysis skills, fostering their growth as competent and confident qualitative researchers.

Knowing qualitative data analysis methods is one thing, but recognizing the discrete roles they play in making contributions to research is essential to good research practices.

Focus on good research practices

In any research project, there are some tasks that are arguably more mundane (such as data organization and data preparation) relative to other tasks (such as data collection and data analysis). Still, these routine aspects of research are just as important as coding data and developing rigorous findings, so we have included a space for them in this guide.

Adhere to ethical considerations

This guide will help researchers navigate the unique ethical challenges associated with qualitative research, ensuring that their studies are conducted responsibly and with respect for the rights and well-being of participants. By providing emerging researchers with essential information and guidance, this qualitative research guide can support them in conducting rigorous, relevant, and impactful studies that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.

How to use this guide

Researchers come from all different backgrounds and have different levels of expertise. This guide is here to support them all.

For all the essentials

Think of this resource as a basic step-by-step guide to qualitative research, from study design to data analysis. If you are new to qualitative research, you can read this guide from start to finish to gain an essential knowledge base that can guide you in your research endeavors.

For a quick refresher

Even experienced researchers from time to time need to refresh their understanding of qualitative research. In that case, feel free to browse through our table of contents to find the appropriate page where you need support.

Table of contents

This section is part of an entire guide. Use this table of contents to jump to any page in the guide.