Qualitative Research: The Essential Guide to Theory and Practice

This book provides beginning researchers with both an overview of qualitative research and practical advice and guidance about how to conduct a qualitative study. The booka (TM)s focus enables researchers to choose the most appropriate methodology by providing them with underpinning theory in a practical way alongside specific examples and proven tips. Beginning by exploring the key differences between qualitative and quantitative research the authors clearly explain the specific features of qualitative research and importantly clarify what qualitative research isna (TM)t. The book then guides beginning researchers though each stage of the research process identifying:

• The primary goals of qualitative research
• Challenges of qualitative research
• Researcher responsibilities and the ethics of research
• The rights and responsibilities of participants
• Approaches to data collection
• Selecting a research design
• Analyzing and interpreting data
• Managing the findings

Broad in scope yet practical in approach this book will serve the needs of beginning researchers in many social science disciplines and will be of particular interest to those working in health, medicine, education, social work, business and other fields that seek to develop and use diverse qualitative approaches.

Qualitative Research: The Essential Guide to Theory and Practice provides a one-stop resource for all those approaching qualitative research for the first time, as well as those revisiting core concepts and issues. It presents a comprehensive overview of this rapidly developing field of inquiry, cleverly combined with practical, hands-on advice on how to conduct a successful qualitative study.

Written in an engaging and accessible style, the authors break through difficult terminology to guide readers through the choices they will face during research design, implementation, and beyond. Each chapter is then brought to life by an array of relevant, real-life examples from expert researchers around the globe.

Divided into seven sections, this unique text covers:

• Considering perspectives
• Acknowledging a position
• Framing the study
• Choosing a research approach
• Collecting data
• Working with data and findings
• Writing about the research

This book also includes 12-month access to the Interactive eTextbook, which offers:

• Author videos introducing the book and the Qualitative Wheel of Research Choices
• An Interactive version of the Qualitative Wheel of Research Choices
• Exclusive chapters on writing and publishing qualitative research
• Links to relevant journals, conferences and online resources
• Additional case study abstracts
• The ability to highlight, annotate, cut and paste, and share your notes across the classroom

From the foundations of the subject through to its application in practice, Qualitative Research: The Essential Guide to Theory and Practice is an indispensable companion for qualitative researchers worldwide.

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