Interviews
What are the three main types of interviews used in qualitative research?
Structured, semi-structured, and unstructured interviews.
What is a focus group?
A group of 8-12 people discussing a topic of shared interest in a moderated setting.
What is the main characteristic of an observation in qualitative research?
The researcher collects data in a natural environment without manipulating the setting.
What is a case study in qualitative research?
An in-depth investigation of an individual, group, or organization.
What is qualitative research primarily concerned with?
Understanding experiences, meanings, and perspectives rather than numerical data.
How does a semi-structured interview balance flexibility and consistency?
It follows a pre-determined set of questions but allows follow-up questions based on participant responses.
What is the role of the researcher in a focus group?
To act as a facilitator, ensuring the discussion stays on topic and all issues are explored.
What is the difference between a participant and non-participant observation?
In participant observation, the researcher actively engages with the group; in non-participant observation, they remain separate.
What types of data collection methods are commonly used in case studies?
Interviews, observations, standardized tests, and secondary data analysis.
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data analysis?
Qualitative data analysis focuses on themes and meanings, while quantitative analysis involves statistical and numerical data.
Why might an unstructured interview be more challenging for researchers?
The lack of a strict format requires skilled interviewers to keep the conversation relevant and avoid leading questions.
Why might a focus group be more effective than a one-on-one interview?
Participants may feel more comfortable sharing experiences in a group setting where they bond over shared perspectives.
What is the difference between covert and overt observations?
In covert observations, participants are unaware they are being observed, reducing demand characteristics. In overt observations, participants know they are being observed, which may influence behavior.
What is method triangulation, and why is it useful in case studies?
It involves using multiple data collection techniques to enhance the validity and credibility of findings.
Why is reflexivity important in qualitative research?
It helps researchers acknowledge their own biases and how they might influence the research process.
What is a potential drawback of using open-ended questions in an interview?
Responses can be long and difficult to analyze systematically.
What is a major limitation of focus groups in qualitative research?
Some participants may dominate the discussion, limiting diverse input.
What is the primary advantage of covert observation?
It reduces demand characteristics and ensures that behavior is more natural and uninhibited.
Why might case studies lack generalizability?
They focus on specific cases, making it difficult to apply findings to a broader population
How does researcher triangulation improve the credibility of qualitative research?
By involving multiple researchers in the analysis process, reducing individual bias.
Why might a structured interview be less effective in capturing deep insights?
The rigid format limits participants from elaborating on their experiences and perspectives.
How can social desirability bias affect focus group responses?
Participants may conform to group opinions or give answers they think are socially acceptable rather than their true thoughts.
Why might a non-participant observation be more objective than a participant observation?
The researcher is not directly involved, reducing potential bias or influence on participants.
How can researcher bias affect case study results?
The researcher's expectations and interpretations may influence data collection and analysis, reducing objectivity
Why might qualitative research be considered less reliable than quantitative research?
Qualitative research relies on subjective interpretation and context-specific findings, making replication more difficult.