3. Module: QUALITATIVE RESEARCH DESIGNS

Module 3 is designed to provide both first-stage researchers and recognised researchers, who have a solid understanding of qualitative research methods and designs. The module begins by offering a brief overview of the scientific research process, laying the foundation for deeper exploration. It outlines the stages of research, highlighting the differences between research paradigms, methods, techniques, and designs. The distinctions between quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research are explained to provide a clear framework for understanding the various approaches to research.

At the core of the module is a detailed explanation of qualitative research, which is distinguished by its focus on exploring the depth and complexity of human experiences, social phenomena, and individual perspectives. Unlike quantitative research, which focuses on measuring variables, qualitative research seeks to understand the meanings and interpretations behind human actions, thoughts, and interactions. The module delves into the use of qualitative theories, and offers guidance on how to develop meaningful and focused research questions.

Following the comprehensive explanation of research in general, and characteristics of qualitative research in particular, an in-depth exploration of the most commonly used qualitative research designs is provided. These include narrative research, grounded theory, phenomenology, participatory action research (PAR), ethnomethodology, historical study, and case studies. Each design is carefully explained, with a focus on its specific use to investigate a wide range of phenomena across various fields.

In the final chapter, the module introduces qualitative research methods – essential techniques for data collection. The reader is guided through different methods, such as observation, structured and unstructured interviews, focus groups, biographical research, and qualitative surveys. Understanding these methods is crucial for collecting and interpreting data effectively to generate valuable insights from qualitative research.

Each chapter is organised around clear learning objectives, thus ensuring that the reader gains a structured and thorough understanding of qualitative research. The knowledge and skills gained throughout the module will empower the reader to use qualitative research designs and methods in their own work, whether they are investigating human behavior, social trends, or historical events.

By the end of this module, the reader will have not only gained a theoretical understanding of qualitative research but also develop skills for using various designs and methods in their research endeavors. Whether in academic, professional, or practical contexts, the tools presented in this module will serve as valuable resources in conducting qualitative research.

This module is intended to inspire curiosity and equip the reader with the basic knowledge needed to further explore the rich and complex domain of qualitative research.

Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION

Objective 1 – Explain the research process in general and its stages.

Objective 2 – Highlight the difference between research paradigms.

Objective 3 – Emphasise the difference between the method and technique.

Objective 4 – Discuss the role of research methods in the scientific research process.

Objective 5 – Define the research design.

Objective 6 – Explain the difference between quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods designs.

Chapter 2. QUALITATIVE RESEACH

Objective 1 – Define qualitative research.

Objective 2 – Highlight the distinctive features of qualitative research.

Objective 2 – Explain the qualitative theory use.

Objective 3 – Provide guidance on how to write qualitative research questions.

Chapter 3. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH DESIGNS

Objective 1 – Define a qualitative research design.

Objective 2 – Explain the narrative research design.

Objective 2 – Explain the grounded theory research design.

Objective 3 – Give guidelines on the use of the phenomenological research design.

Objective 4 – Give guidelines on the use of the participatory action research.

Objective 5 – Explain how to use ethnomethodology.

Objective 6 – Explain the essentials of historical research.

Objective 7 – Give guidelines on the use of different types of case study.

Chapter 4. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS

Objective 1 – Introduce observation and its types.

Objective 2 – Give guidance on the use of different types of interview.

Objective 3 – Elaborate the use of a focus group interview.

Objective 4 – Explain the essentials of the biographical research method.

Objective 5 – Explain the use of qualitative surveys.

The main focus of interest in Module 3 is the explanation of different qualitative designs. In order to make qualitative designs easier to understand, at the beggining of the module a brief general outline of the scientific research process, research paradigms and their elements, research methods, and research designs is provided, and the differentiation between quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods research explained. This is followed by a thorough explanation of qualitative research, including its definition, distinctive characteristics, qualitative theory use, and instructions about how to write qualitative research questions.

Each of the most commonly used qualitative research designs, such as narrative research, grounded theory, phenomenology, participatory action research (PAR), ethnomethodology, historical study and case study is devoted a separate section in this module. The elaboration of the most commonly used qualitative data collection methods comprises the final chapter of the module.

Module 3 comprises the following chapters:

Chapter 1. Introduction

Chapter 2. Qualitative Research

Chapter 3. Qualitative Research Designs 

Chapter 4. Qualitative Research Methods

Ivana Marinković, MA

Ljubica Diković, PhD

Vesna Vasović, PhD

Western Serbia Academy of Applied Studies

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