Qualitative Research- Best/Kahn

Ethnography,case study, phenomenological, constructivist, participant, observational.

Participant observational techniques result in more natural approach than tests and surveys.

Interview, direct observation, written documents

Direct quotes from people about their opinions,feelings, knowledge

Descriptions of people's activities, actions, interactions

Excerpts, quotations,records, memos,correspondence, official publications, reports, diaries, open ended written responses to questionnaires and surveys

1. purpose 2.context of study being contemplated (background research) 3. research questions ( the purpose and context need to be understood first) research questions are open to change 4. approaches and techniques for data study, who is being studied, how selected,( open for change) 5. alternative explanations,threats to study, etc.

Purposeful sampling because the researcher select particular people who will provide the needed information

Naturalistic inquiry

Feature of qualitative research, design open to change as study continues, allows for corrections as new information and discoveries are revealed

Going into the real world and getting close enough to capture what happens. Get to know subject.

Understand feelings of subjects and showing them empathy while maintaining perspective as researcher. approach the data with neutrality.

Individual and group can only be understood through studying their change during the period of the study

Each case is unique and must be approached that way

Explore data without prior hypothesis ( opposite of logical-positive approach)