A Detailed Approach to Qualitative Research Methods

• Qualitative methods in research have become increasingly popular since it can generate data which would be difficult, or sometimes impossible, using quantitative methods. In qualitative studies, the focus is very much on how somebody creates their own meaning of events, rather than applying a ready-made structure. The aim is not to generate results which can be analyzed statistically and then generalized to other contexts but to collect in-depth nonnumerical data from a smaller sample. To achieve this numerous skills are required including, having an open mind and being able to improvise on the spot. This article starts with a presentation of qualitative and quantitative methods, differences and similarities, and challenging the preconceived idea that one is subjective and the other objective. Following which the focus is on in-depth interviews explaining how it should be prepared and also how to design a protocol. Sample size is discussed and what to consider when recruiting participants. The interview itself is covered at some length including some important points which need to be considered. The ending of an interview is also crucial and therefore some thoughts about this are compiled. The article concludes with a short description of how to conduct focus group interviews.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Folkhälsovetenskap, global hälsa, socialmedicin och epidemiologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Public Health, Global Health, Social Medicine and Epidemiology (hsv//eng)

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