This is an introductory course designed for the individual with limited or no previous experience with qualitative techniques of data collection and analysis.
This is an introductory course which deals with the major decisions a qualitative researchers needs to make initially:
• research design and ethics
• qualitative paradigms and methodology/ies
The emphasis on the 2nd and 3rd days is on practical experience. The gaining of practice-based skills with regard to conducting both face-to-face and focus group interviews in person and online, and in gaining experience in analysing and displaying qualitative data.
The target audience for this course is those who would like to become more familiar with qualitative research decisions and techniques, from postgraduate university students and staff to researchers in government and private organisations.
Topics scheduled are:
Day 1
- Introductory session. Outline of the course and identification of participants’ research interests. Researcher's frames and issues of design: sampling; triangulation; validity, reliability and ethics will also be covered.
- Theoretical paradigms from Post positivism through to Performative/ Practice led.
- Methodologies from Ethnography to Case studies
Day 2
- Interviewing. Casual and formal techniques of face-to-face interviewing (access, rapport, recording, and question design). Online interviewing practice.
- Focus group techniques
Day 3
- Focus group practice.
- Data management and preliminary data analysis. Thematic analysis.
- Computer management. Data display and criteria for assessment of qualitative research
Exercises will be provided for group work.
This course will take place in a classroom. No equipment is required.
There are no prerequisites for this course
The instructor's bound, book length course notes will serve as the course text.
Other reading:
- Grbich, C., (2013) Qualitative Data Analysis: An introduction. 2 nd editions London: Sage Publications. Covers a variety of analytic styles.
- Grbich, C., (2004) New Approaches in Social Research London: Sage Publications. Focus: Postmodernism and post structuralism
- Grbich, C. (1999). Qualitative Research in Health: an introduction Sage International, California. A generic qualitative text for the health sector.
- Cresswell, J., and Poth, C. (2017) Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing among five approaches. Sage Publications Inc.
- Denzin, N. & Lincoln, Y. (2011) Handbook of Qualitative Research. Fourth edition. California: Sage. Suitable for advanced researchers.
- Minichiello., V. Aroni, R, & Hays, T (2008) In-Depth Interviewing: Principles, techniques, analysis. 3rd edition. Melbourne: Longmans
Q: Do I have to have had any qualitative or quantative research experience to do this course?
A: No, this is an introductory course and no prior knowledge is required
Q: Has the name of this course changed?
A: This course was previously a 5 day course known as Foundations of Qualitative methodologies, Data collection and Analysis
Very useful on gaining knowledge on techniques and how to gather data. Very relevant to my research.
The lecturer’s knowledge of the subject matter was impressive and her stories/experiences helped contextulise our understanding of the matter. There are a lot of resources provided which is very helpful.
A good introduction to a method of research I know little about. A guide as to what I need to learn about and source to explore. Encouraging, informative, stimulating.
Fantastic mix of theory & practice. It really solidified the concept.
Course targeted my needs. I wanted practical information & strategies, insight into problems/problem solving (Winter 2017)
Great balance of presentation, discussions, small group work and hands-on activities. Lots of practical examples. I loved hearing about the instructor’s (Carol)’s own long & varied experience.
The data collection and analysis focusing on interviews and observation was highly relevant to my research. I'm currently running my PhD proposal and found the very helpful for study design development.
This course allowed me to get exposure & practice qualitative research skills. I particularly enjoyed the focus group scenario.
The instructor's bound, book length course notes will serve as the course text.