Qualitative Data Collection Essay -- Sociology

Qualitative Research Methods: A Data Collector’s Field Guide (Mack et al 2005) present practical information on qualitative data collection methods. I found this guide very informative, easy to understand, plain and easy to use for collecting data in qualitative research in the field. This guide provides step by step instructions to conduct qualitative research by choosing the most suitable method for that particular situation. This guide enabled me to successfully conduct my interview assignment for qualitative research course. Mack et al (2005) states â€Å"the three most common qualitative methods, participant observation, in-depth interviews, and focus groups and explained the situations where these methods are particularly suited for obtaining a specific type of data, e.g.; †¢ Participant observation is appropriate for collecting data on naturally occurring behaviours in their usual contexts. †¢ In-depth interviews are optimal for collecting data on individuals’ personal histories, perspectives, and experiences, particularly when sensitive topics are being explored. †¢ Focus groups are effective in eliciting data on the cultural norms of a group and in generating broad overviews of issues of concern to the cultural groups or subgroups represented.† Field notes, audio/ video recordings, and transcripts are the different types of data obtained from the qualitative methods discussed above. Open-ended questions and probing questions enabled the researcher to get more in depth information from the participants. While sample is the representation of the whole population by a small group which is chosen randomly or by certain criteria to estimate characteristics of the whole population. The objectives of our research question along ... ...on. The handwritten notes are converted into full narratives and then typed and saved into data file of the project into computer. Data Management Two to three copies of all the data (field notes, voice recordings, and video recordings & observations transcripts) should be made and kept separately from each other in a secure location. Process of transcription of voice and video recordings and typing of field notes should be started as soon as possible and kept together in an organized and systematic fashion. Works Cited Mack, N., Woodsong, C., MacQueen, K., Guest, G., & Namey, E. 2005. Qualitative Research Methods: A Data Collector’s Field Guide. Family Health International, North Carolina, USA. Retrieved from: http://www.fhi360.org/NR/rdonlyres/emgox4xpcoyrysqspsgy5ww6mq7v4e44etd6toiejyxalhbmk5sdnef7fqlr3q6hlwa2ttj5524xbn/datacollectorguideenrh.pdf