Research Methods II: Qualitative Research
Full course description
Why is it so difficult to live healthier or more sustainable? How do citizens, businesses and policymakers view food waste and potential solutions to this phenomenon? How do people experience being part of a particular community? People’s experiences, the context in which events take place or themes about which little is known can best be investigated using qualitative research methods. Qualitative research allows you to study how specific situations or phenomena are experienced, why people look at a theme in a certain way and explore new areas and themes. Similar to quantitative research, this type of research requires a specific methodological approach. In this project, you will engage with qualitative research methods, design your own qualitative study, and learn to reflect on your role as researcher in the process.
Course objectives
After following the course, students will be able to:
- Identify and describe key characteristics of qualitative research and explain when and why it is an appropriate methodology;
- Summarize the three primary data collection methods in qualitative research (observation, interviewing, and document analysis) and explain when each method is most suitable for gathering data;
- Acquire a basic understanding of data analysis in qualitative research, in particular reflexive thematic analysis, to identify recurring patterns, themes and interpretations within data;
- Evaluate the methodological strengths and limitations inherent to empirical qualitative studies, considering factors such as validity, reliability and bias;
- Reflect upon personal positionality and ethical considerations as a researcher, demonstrating an understanding of how one’s background, beliefs, and biases may influence the research process and outcomes;
- Develop a research proposal for a qualitative study on a chosen topic related to sustainable and/or healthy living, including clear research aims and objectives, appropriate data collection methods, and a plan for data analysis, demonstrating a clear understanding of how to design a qualitative research project, the methodological considerations and potential research contributions.
Recommended reading
- Denzin, N. K., & Lincoln, Y. S. (2024). The SAGE handbook of qualitative research (6th ed.). SAGE Publications Ltd.;
- Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2021). Thematic analysis – A practical guide. SAGE Publications Ltd.;
- Research articles (via Canvas)
- A. de Boer
- K.G.M. Lenssen