MODULE 3: Characteristics and Ethics of Qualitative Research

Question 1

What are the four (4) characteristics of a qualitative research?

Answer 1

• qualitative research occur in the field or in a natural setting
• researchers act as the key instrument
• participant and their subjective views on a particular phenomenon are put into emphasis
• qualitative research uses multiple sources of datas and analysis

Question 2

Strengths and Weaknesses of Qualitative Research Methods: Semi-structured reviews

Answer 2

STRENGTH:
- prevents imposing biases
- using open ended questions
- ensure mutual understanding bet. participant and interviewer
WEAKNESS:
- tendency to ask leading questions
- interviews and analysis can be both time-consuming, subjective and not generalizable

Question 3

Strengths and Weaknesses of Qualitative Research Methods: Observations

Answer 3

STRENGTH:
- first-hand account of observing, prevents imposition of preconceived ideas and explore unforeseen effects
WEAKNESS:
- can be time consuming and not generalizable
- observer’s presence may influence participants
- observer may misinterpret actions, may be subjective

Question 4

Strengths and Weaknesses of Qualitative Research Methods: Focused Group Discussion

Answer 4

STRENGTH:
- less expensive than individual interviews
- provides relaxed atmosphere so people feel free to express their views and strengths
- responses can be more spontaneous than in a one-to-one interview
WEAKNESS:
- findings are not generalizable unless sampling techniques are used to constitute the groups
- group dynamics may inhibit people

Question 5

what is RESEARCH ETHICS AND GUIDELINES?

Answer 5

• research ethics ensures that every part of the study can balance the values and morals of both researcher and subject/respondent

Question 6

what are the four (4) ethic goals of a researcher?

Answer 6

• ensure that people participate voluntarily in the study
• keep people’s comments and behavior confidential
• protect people from harm
• ensure mutual trust between researcher and participants

Question 7

what are the six (6) ethical principles?

Answer 7

• beneficence
• veracity or justice
• voluntary participation/respect for persons
• anonymity and confidentiality
• disclosure
• consent

Question 8

Researchers are ethically obligated to maximize benefit and minimize harm

Answer 8

• beneficence

Question 9

The truth must always be stated, and all agreements or promises must be met.

Answer 9

• veracity or justice

Question 10

participants must be aware that their participation in the study is voluntary and that they are free to withdraw at any time without unfavorable repercussions.

Answer 10

• voluntary participation/respect for persons

Question 11

researchers seek to protect subjects’ identity, interests and future well-being

Answer 11

• anonymity and confidentiality

Question 12

this sets a boundary on what to disclose to the participant regarding the study

Answer 12

• disclosure

Question 13

informed consent is an operational principle that allows participants to know that they are being researched, and that they have the right to withdraw.

Answer 13

• consent

Question 14

what are the four (4) areas of concern in research that are being addressed by CONSENT?

Answer 14

• giving relevant info about the research to the subject for them to decide whether to participate
• making sure that subjects understand information by writing it in the subject’s language and capacity
• ensuring that participation is voluntary by requiring written consent
• subjects that are not competent to agree must be given consent by a proxy

Question 15

what are the ETHICAL PITFALLS and COMMON ETHICAL PROBLEMS? (8)

Answer 15

• exploitative social research
• deception
• identification of subjects’ identities
• fraternizing with disliked groups
• participation in dubious bargains
• research as a therapeutic action
• research is conducted without a good background of safety precautions
• family members and friends are used as participants