Qualitative Research Reflection

The first time I heard about qualitative research was last year in the fall. We learn about the basics of qualitative research and how to collect data and report on that data's findings. Qualitative research involves obtaining information or data from the interviewee through observation, one-on-one interviews, focus groups, surveys or questionnaires and case studies. I also learned that qualitative research allows for more in-depth and probing analysis while communicating with the interviewee. To improve our learning in qualitative research, we must keep a growth mindset. Reflective thinking is an element to challenge where we are and gain knowledge and experience about where we are going.

I had no previous knowledge of qualitative research, so I thought but realized I had limited experience while writing this reflection. About five years ago, I interviewed elementary teachers to collect data on how they view experiences and their beliefs about effective classroom learning. I wanted to understand how they know if their teaching, instructional materials, learning environment or learning strategies were improving students' performance. The interviews were in a structured format with scheduled interviews over the phone.

I have a favorable view of qualitative research where you can explore more in-depth and analyze through various qualitative research methods. I like that there are controls in place as researchers work with human subjects, and it is vital that specific individuals are not being misused in research or can bring unnecessary harm. I did learn you need to get IRB approval before you can engage any human subject in research, and you also must obtain their permission through a consent form. I learn how to identify a research problem, locate and review literature, conduct ethics and research, establish a hypothesis, create data sampling, choose an instrument, and analyze data (Fraenkel et al., 2011).

I want to learn more about qualitative research and its use in a mixed-method format. I do not have any opposing views on the qualitative research method yet. It could be due to my limited experience. We consumed so much information previously on qualitative research that I had cognitive overload, and I was not fully comprehending when to use it and how to ensure you select a valid instrument for your research. I am hoping to have time to take deeper dives and reflect on information to learn more about it.

References

Fraenkel, J. R., Wallen, N. E., & Hyun, H. H. (2018). How to design and evaluate research in education. McGraw-Hill Education.