Qualitative research
Definition: Research which uses non-numerical data, such as textual responses, images, videos or other artefacts, to explore in-depth concepts, theories, or experiences. There are a wide range of qualitative approaches, from micro-detailed exploration of language or focusing on personal subjective experiences, to those which explore macro-level social experiences and opinions.
Related terms: Bracketing Interviews, Positionality, Quantitative research, Reflexivity **Alternative definition:** (if applicable) In Psychology, the **epistemology** of qualitative research is typically concerned with understanding people’s perspectives. Such epistemology proposes assuming the equity of researchers and participants as human beings, and in consequence, the need of sympathetic human understanding instead of data-driven conclusions
References:
- Aspers, P., & Corte, U. (2019). What is qualitative in qualitative research. Qualitative Sociology, 42(2), 139–160. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11133-019-9413-7
- Levitt, H. M., Motulsky, S. L., Wertz, F. J., Morrow, S. L., & Ponterotto, J. G. (2017). Recommendations for designing and reviewing qualitative research in psychology: Promoting methodological integrity. Qualitative Psychology, 4(1), 2. https://doi.org/10.1037/qup0000082
Originally drafted by: Madeleine Pownall
Reviewed by: Mahmoud Elsherif, Helena Hartmann, Oscar Lecuona, Claire Melia, Flávio Azevedo