Data Collection

Owned by Darlene Edgar
Nov 25, 2023
1 min read

Summary of "Data Collection in Qualitative Research"

Barrett, D., & Twycross, A. (2018). Data collection in qualitative research. Evidence-based Nursing, 21(3), 63–64. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/eb-2018-102939

Interviews:

  • Types: Face-to-face or over the phone.

  • Structure:

    • Open/unstructured: Shaped by a single question, allowing interviewees to guide the conversation.

    • Semi-structured: Explicitly asks about core elements of the phenomenon, providing flexibility.

    • Questionnaire style: Rigid and structured, offering greater control.

  • Recording: Often recorded and transcribed, but analysis is time-consuming.

  • Interview Schedule: List of questions reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure key issues are included.

  • Considerations: Must avoid leading questions and nonverbal signs. Biased and time-consuming.

Focus Groups:

  • Participants: 6 to 12, facilitated by a moderator.

  • Efficiency: Efficient for gathering views of many participants at once.

  • Benefits:

    • Encourages debate and free-flowing discussion.

    • Allows participants to bounce ideas off each other, providing different perspectives.

  • Transcription: Discussions often 1 to 2 hours, requiring transcription and analysis.

  • Moderation: Skilled moderators needed for focused yet inclusive discussions.

Observation:

  • Types: Participant and non-participant.

  • Data Capture: Involves verbal and nonverbal communication, actions, and environmental factors.

  • Field Notes: Chronological log, descriptions, recorded conversations, and expanded impressions.

  • Recording: Can be digitally recorded for detailed analysis.

  • Challenges: Hawthorne effect - people may behave differently when observed.

  • Ethical Issues: Intervening during poor practice raises ethical dilemmas regarding participant safety.