Research Methods

Paper Summary:

The paper explains that without research, new knowledge is not garnered, existing knowledge is not further clarified or expanded upon and the discipline becomes stagnant. The paper relates that qualitative research is an important part of this search for knowledge. The paper explores the benefits of using the qualitative approach to research, as opposed to other research methods. The paper discusses the pros and cons of qualitative research, as well as the importance of interviews, observations and documentation, together with the methodology, sensitivity and integrity of the researcher.

Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Benefits of Using Qualitative Research as Opposed to Other Research Methods
The Pros and Cons of Qualitative Research
Importance of Interviews, Observations, and Documentation
Importance of Methodology, Sensitivity, and Integrity of the Researcher
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Qualitative research is one of the two primary research methodologies used. It "takes an interpretive, naturalistic approach to its subject matter; qualitative researchers study things in their natural settings, attempting to make sense of, or interpret, phenomena in terms of the meanings that people bring to them" (qtd. Jones, 1995). This process begins by understanding that there are a variety of ways of making sense of the world and therefore focuses on discovering the meanings that are seen by those who are being researched, to better understand their view of the world."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Jones, R. Why do qualitative research? (1995 Jul 1). British Medical Journal 311(6996) Retrieved December 2, 2006, from ProQuest. Database.
• Qualitative research. (2006 Nov 29). Retrieved December 2, 2006, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qualitative_research.
• Trochim, W. (2006a). The qualitative debate. Retrieved December 2, 2006, from http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/qualdeb.htm.
• --- (2006b). Qualitative measures. Retrieved December 2, 2006, from http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/qual.htm.
• --- (2006c). Qualitative methods. Retrieved December 2, 2006, from http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/qualmeth.htm.

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