The basics of qualitative research - a guide for PhD researchers

The basics of qualitative research revolve around 3 core principles, so PhD researchers, let’s take a look at them and compare them to their quantitative counterparts!

(1) Subjectivity: Embracing the Richness of Perspectives

In qualitative research, subjectivity has value.

It is not a stumbling block but a gateway to understanding the diverse tapestry of human experiences. Visualize putting on tinted glasses that represent unique perspectives, beliefs, and attitudes. Subjectivity, far from hindering research, enriches it, adding depth and authenticity to our findings.

Qualitative vs. Quantitative

Quantitative research often aims for objectivity by minimizing personal biases, utilizing standardized instruments, and focusing on numerical data. In contrast, qualitative research thrives on subjectivity, acknowledging that personal perspectives contribute to the richness of data.

Subjectivity in qualitative research is about recognizing that researchers and participants bring their unique set of tinted glasses to the study. These personal viewpoints are valued, as they contribute to the authenticity and depth of the research. While objectivity in quantitative research attempts to eliminate personal biases, qualitative researchers view subjectivity as an asset, enriching the narrative with diverse perspectives.

(2) Validity: Navigating the Terrain of Trustworthiness

For qualitative researchers, validity is about establishing trustworthiness and authenticity in the study's findings. Credibility takes center stage as a crucial concept, showcasing that our research is not a misrepresentation but an authentic and accurate portrayal of participants' truths.

Qualitative vs. Quantitative

In quantitative research, validity often focuses on the accuracy of measurement instruments, ensuring that the tools used provide consistent and reliable results. Qualitative researchers, however, prioritize the trustworthiness of their findings. This trustworthiness is rooted in the credibility of the study, demonstrating that the research faithfully represents the participants' perspectives and experiences.

Ensuring validity in qualitative research involves a rigorous commitment to transparency in the research design. PhD students must prioritize and articulate the steps taken, the decisions made, and the considerations that guided our study. By demystifying our process, we enhance the credibility of our research and foster a sense of trust in the validity of our qualitative inquiries.

(3) Reliability: Building Dependable Research Foundations

While reliability in quantitative research often revolves around replicability, qualitative researchers redefine it as dependability. The focus shifts to establishing a robust and transparent research design, showcasing the methodological workings within our unique context. Rather than striving for uniform replicability across studies, reliability in qualitative research centers on consistency and dependability within the confines of each individual study.

Qualitative vs. Quantitative

In quantitative research, reliability is about achieving consistent results through repeated measurements. Standardized protocols aim to ensure that the same study conducted in the same way would yield similar outcomes. However, qualitative researchers emphasize dependability within the specific context of their study.

Reliability in qualitative research involves building a dependable foundation through a transparent and well-documented research design. PhD students should view their research designs as transparent narratives, allowing readers to understand not only the results but also the journey taken to reach those conclusions. By being clear about our process, we cultivate a sense of dependability, reassuring readers that our research is both consistent and reliable within its specific design.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these three core principles—subjectivity, validity, and reliability—form the bedrock of qualitative research. Embracing these principles will not only guide your research endeavors but will also contribute to their robustness and authenticity.

Remember, in the world of qualitative research, subjectivity is not a hindrance but a beacon guiding you toward a deeper understanding of the intricate nuances of the human experience.

Validity and reliability, when approached with transparency and commitment, elevate your research to a level where it becomes a trustworthy and dependable contribution to the broader academic conversation.

Want to learn more?

If you’re designing a qualitative study, you’ll need to understand the ontological and epistemological underpinnings - yup, those are intimidating words! However, there’s a simple explanation of them in this cheat sheet, so grab yours by clicking here.