PS398 Chapter 4: DESIGNING A QUALITATIVE STUDY
Document Summary
A qualitative design is systematic when it follows the methodological guidelines of a specific method or approach (ex grounded theory study will unfold in distinctly different ways compared to a narrative analysis) Qualitative studies are not intended to follow a predictable step-by-step format thus offer opportunity for creativity and thr challenge of decision making on an ongoing basis. Transparency entails keeping meticulous records of what is done and maintaining a degree of accountability for decisions made along the way. Some researchers begin with study questions that spring from curiosity, prior theoretical frameworks, personal experience, or a commitment to human betterment. Study questions are more broad than hypotheses and are not directly researchable as stated. Study questions and research questions do not get formulated in a vaccuum. Systematic lit review prevents reinventing the wheel but building upon previous work sets the stage for deeper description, conceptual development, and theoretical refinement.
