Terminologies used in Qualitative Research Design: 1. Phenomenon✍

Terminologies used in Qualitative Research Design:✍

In some research, both qualitative and quantitative data are collected. However, recognizing any research as qualitative research based on data is a mistaken  Act.  recognizing qualitative research as a method in which non-numeric data are collected to limit its meaning. Why? We will discuss it in this session.

Various Scholars of psychology, social science, and education have clarified Qualitative research according to their own points of view. Referring to their thoughts,  it can be said that the concept of qualitative research cannot be limited to a single definition. Let's start with the terminologies used in qualitative research. 

Terminologies✍

Some of the terminology used in qualitative research are…

• Phenomenon
• Phenomenology
• Phenomenological Paradigm
• Triangulation process
• Logical Positivism

Let’s try to understand each one of them one by one.

1. Phenomenon: ✍

In qualitative research, a phenomenon refers to any observable event, experience, situation, or occurrence that researchers investigate to gain an in-depth understanding. Phenomena in qualitative research are often complex, multifaceted, and subjective, focusing on the meanings, perceptions, and interpretations of individuals or groups. Here are a few examples to illustrate phenomena in qualitative research:

Cultural Adaptation:

Researchers might study the phenomenon of cultural adaptation among immigrants. This could involve exploring how individuals from different cultures adapt, negotiate, or struggle with the norms, values, and practices of a new society.

Workplace Dynamics:

Investigating the phenomenon of power dynamics in the workplace could involve examining how hierarchies, communication patterns, and organizational structures influence decision-making, collaboration, and conflicts among employees.

Online Social Interactions:

Understanding the phenomenon of online communities and their impact on social behavior involves exploring how individuals form connections, share information, and create identities within digital spaces like social media platforms or forums.

Patient Experience in Healthcare:

Researchers might explore the phenomenon of patient experiences in healthcare settings. This could involve studying how patients perceive and navigate their interactions with healthcare professionals, the emotional impact of medical diagnoses, or the process of decision-making about treatment options.

Climate Change Perception:

Investigating the phenomenon of climate change perception involves understanding how different communities or individuals interpret, understand, and respond to information about climate change. This could include exploring beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors related to environmental issues.

Gender Identity Development:

Researchers might study the phenomenon of gender identity development, examining how individuals perceive, construct, and express their gender identities over time, considering societal influences and personal experiences.

In qualitative research, phenomena are explored through various methods such as interviews, observations, focus groups, and analysis of texts or artifacts. The goal is to capture the richness and depth of experiences, perceptions, and meanings associated with the phenomenon being studied. Researchers aim to provide context, depth, and understanding by delving into the subjective and nuanced aspects of human experiences and social phenomena.

In a general sense,  the word phenomenon refers to something that exists and can be seen,  felt,  tasted,  etc., especially something that is unusual or interesting.  The most important thing in the said meaning is,  it is either unusual or interesting.  in this sense, the Phenomenon can be described in the context of research as like…

• Any fact or the occurrence of circumstances that is either observed or can be observed.
• Any impressive or extraordinary thing,  incident,  event,  individual, or experience.
• Any remarkable or exceptional person or prodigy
• Any such thing,  situation, or experience that is given a specific meaning by the subjects of research according to their experience and insights.

Thank you for reading.👀

Professor (Dr.) P. M. Mxlek 

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