Course Description:

This course is designed as a survey of the theory and practice of qualitative methods of research. The course will focus on principles and methods of designing psychological research using qualitative methods. It will provide a critical review of the most widely used qualitative methods of research, will focus on the theoretical underpinnings of this methodology and on the possibilities and limitations of qualitative methods. Particular attention will be given to the skills involved in designing and implementing qualitative studies (i.e., techniques of data collection, analysis and interpretation of data; questions of validity and reliability; writing up results of qualitative data). The goal of this course is to prepare students to design research studies using this methodology and to analyze qualitative literature critically.

Format:

Students will become familiar with qualitative methodology through a mixture of reading and skills development activities. Assigned reading will provide a knowledge base about the essentials of qualitative research. Examples of studies that have used these methods will be provided. Skills will be developed through in-class exercises and through the design and execution of a small study on a subject of choice.

Required Texts:

- Denzin, N. & Lincoln, Y.(Eds). (1998). Collecting and interpreting qualitative materials. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

- Denzin, N. & Lincoln, Y.(Eds). (1998). Strategies of qualitative inquiry. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

- Kvale, S. (1996). InterViews: An Introduction to qualitative research interviewing. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

- Maykut, P. & Morehouse, R. (1994). Beginning qualitative research: A philosophical and practical guide. Bristol, PA: The Falmer Press.

| Home | Background | Books | Courses | Links | Workshops and Seminars |