Writing a Methods Section of a Qualitative Manuscript/ Dissertation Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is the significance of the Methods section in a qualitative manuscript?
It details essential information for the reader to judge the trustworthiness (validity) of the findings and conclusions of the study.
The Methods section is considered the heart of the paper/dissertation/thesis.
What should be indicated about the researcher’s characteristics?
Credentials, demographic characteristics, experience and training, relationship with participants.
This includes how acquainted the researcher is with participants and any prior relationships.
Define reflexivity in qualitative research.
Reflexivity means sensitivity to the ways in which the researcher and the research process have shaped the collected data.
It includes acknowledgment of biases, assumptions, and interests.
What are the three forms of reflexivity?
- Epistemological
- Critical
- Practical
Each form reflects on different aspects of the research process.
What is meant by ‘data saturation’?
Criteria for deciding no further sample was needed in qualitative research.
It refers to the point at which no new information or themes are emerging from data collection.
What should be documented regarding participant selection?
How participants were selected and why, the sampling approach/technique used, and methods of approaching participants.
This may include in-person, phone, or virtual methods.
What does the Findings/Results section report?
It reports what the research found objectively, without speculating on why those results were found.
In qualitative research, results and discussion can be combined depending on journal requirements.
What ethical considerations must be addressed in qualitative research?
Approval from a Research Ethics Committee (REC), nature of participant consent, and issues of confidentiality/data security.
Consent can be oral or written, and if not obtained, the reasons must be explained.
What should be included in the methodological approach?
Methodological orientation, research design, guiding theory, participant selection, and data collection methods.
It’s important to show sampling techniques and final study sample size.
What is the purpose of writing field notes in qualitative research?
To provide descriptions and reflections on observations during the research process.
Field notes can help account for the researcher’s presence and influence.
True or False: The researcher’s role is not significant in qualitative research.
False
The research process is understood to be influenced by the researcher.
Fill in the blank: The _______ section is where the interpretation of the findings occurs.
[Discussion]
This section contextualizes the findings and explains their significance.
What should be indicated regarding data processing and analysis?
Who was involved in coding, describe the coding tree, and document any software used for qualitative data analysis.
Manual analysis processes should be noted if no software was used.
