Data Collection
- Darlene Edgar
Analytics
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.