Qualitative Methodology
A Practical Guide
- Jane Mills - James Cook University, Australia
- Melanie Birks - James Cook University, Australia
Expert researchers then trace the history and philosophical underpinnings of different methodologies, explore the specific demands each places upon the researcher and robustly set out relevant issues surrounding quality and rigor. Featured methodologies include action research, discourse analysis, ethnography, grounded theory, case studies and narrative inquiry.
This practical book provides a helpful guide to the research process - it introduces the relevant methods of generating, collecting and analysing data for each discrete methodology and then looks at best practice for presenting findings. This enables new researchers to compare qualitative methods and to confidently select the approach most appropriate for their own research projects.
Key features include:
- Summary table for each chapter - allowing quick checks to test knowledge
- 'Window into' sections - real world examples showing each methodology in action
- Student activities
- Learning objectives
- Full glossary
- Annotated suggestions for further reading
- Links to downloadable SAGE articles
- Links to relevant websites and organizations
This is an invaluable resource for students and researchers across the social sciences and a must-have guide for those embarking on a research project.
Each chapter is full of useful examples of research and wider range of reference.
Recommended for supplemental reading for greater research understanding.
did not have enough detail on thematic analysis - lots on grounded theory good
A great introductory book for students who are making decisions which qualitative method and methodology to employ for their research. It is a solid overview of most popular qualitative methods. The chapters are well discussed and key issues for each method are explored.
This book is particularly useful during the early stage of designing a qualitative study. Using a scaffoldings approach it addresses the foundations of qualitative research followed by an examination of the different qualitative methodologies. The third and final section concludes with a number of practical strategies for planning a research study. Certainly useful to a range of students in particular the novice but equally those more experienced that require an accessible source of reference.
This is highly suitable for both undergraduate and postgraduate initial reading, providing clear and accessible discussion of the basics of qualitative research. Of particular help is the guidance for further reading and the activities to consolidate the learning.
Great practical guide that is well laid out and accessible for students.
The book is good and easy to comprehend by the students. A number of the students have made purchases.
This is a great book and I have recommended it for students on the MA Education. We are also due to run a new MRes in Education next year and we will be recommending to those students as well.
Its a very practical guide (as it is suggested by the subtitle). Well organized and considers a profound presentation of qualitative methods.
