Qualitative Study Method
Introduction
Qualitative methods of study are very important study tools for research and help in the study of phenomenon which is regarded as complex. This makes qualitative methods very important tools in health science based research (Robson, 2011). In this regards, qualitative case study methodology is very vital in professional practice and in making decisions which are evident informed. This approach also helps in avoiding any form speculation as an individual evaluates a particular case. The method is very vital both clinical purposes and policy issues. Using qualitative study method helps in handling a particular phenomenon within its context. Because of the flexibility of qualitative study, it is best in program evaluation, interventions development and development of theories (Robson, 2011).
In qualitative case study, an individual should be guided by the case study design. This should be the case if the study is aimed at answering the questions of ‘why’ and ‘how’. This should also be the case if the views of individuals who form part of the study cannot be manipulated, and when the study aims at handling the contextual condition in the case where there is relevance to the phenomenon which is being studied (Lindlof & Taylor, 2010). This approach was used in studying the decision types that are made by nursing students. This was with regards to factors that influence the decision making of the nursing students. This is an example of a typical case study which was fixed within the context of school of nursing. More specifically he narrowed down to clinical and class room context.
There are many qualitative study methods that can used in a case study setting (Lindlof & Taylor, 2010). These include exploratory, descriptive, intrinsic, multiple case study, collective case study and instrumental case study. For instance, explorative case study is major used in situations when the phenomenon under study is to be explored. An exploratory case study can evaluate the relationship between nurse and patient relationship. In instances where the study has more than a single case, then it is wise to undertake a multiple case study (Creswell, 2013). This will make it possible for the researcher to do analysis within each setting and also a cross the settings. Multiple case study involves examination of a number situations and cases with an aim of determining the relationships in terms of similarities and differences. It is worth noting that multiple case study leads to the formation of evidence which is very reliable and also robust. This approach would enable the researcher to carry out a number of related aspects within the same setting or context. In cases where the aim of the researcher is to have insight and understanding about a particular situation, then it would necessary to undertake an instrumental case study. As another option where more than one case is to be studied is to collective case study which has a close relationship with multiple case study (Robson, 2011).
In qualitative method of study, it is vital to always develop a conceptual framework. This works best in the qualitative study which basically involves a case study (Creswell, 2013). Developing a conceptual frame is vital in a number of ways. It plays a great role in determining the individuals or the factors which will be involved in the study and those that are not necessary be involved (Creswell, 2013). You can also use the conceptual frame to in describing and determining the relationship that may exist in the light of theory, logic and experience. It is also a way of collecting the general constructs. Conceptual framework is very integral to the study and always come handy at data interpretation. What inform the conceptual frame are the literature and the personal experience with regards to the phenomenon under study.
It is a general knowledge that there are ethical questions which are always raised with regards to any type of the study method (Creswell, 2012). This applies both in qualitative and quantitative methods. In the light of evidence base practice where the driving factor often time is research, it is bound that in the process some aspects of human right may be violated. With the qualitative method of study focusing on exploration, examination, description of people in the context of their natural environment, there may be cases where an individual may be manipulated to participate in a particular research (Creswell, 2012). This contrary to what should happen in circumstances where an individual consent must always be sort. A number qualitative health research focuses on the people’s experience. In this context there may be a conflict between the role of a nurse as a researcher and as a clinician. Since qualitative research or method of study involves people, it is very vital to establish the ethical questions with regards to this kind of interaction. Factors that ought to be given priority include the research design which should be appropriate, the source of funding and the design methodology.
References
Creswell, J. W. (2012). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five approaches. New York: Sage.
Creswell, J. W. (2013). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. New York: Sage Publications, Incorporated.
Lindlof, T. R., & Taylor, B. C. (2010). Qualitative communication research methods. New York: Sage.
Robson, C. (2011). Real world research: a resource for users of social research methods in applied settings. Chichester: Wiley.
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