Qualitative Analysis

Catalog description

This course will prepare students to conduct qualitative studies as well as to use qualitative methods in conjunction with quantitative research. The course addresses the philosophical rationale and epistemological foundations, methods, and techniques of qualitative research. Students will become conversant with the fundamentals of qualitative research design. They will learn how to formulate research questions and design appropriate sampling and data collection strategies. Topics include constructing an interview guide, in-depth interviewing, participant observation, recording, and transcribing data. The course will also address qualitative data analysis, including open coding and axial coding, and interpreting data. Ethical issues, cultural sensitivity, critical methodologies, and concerns about research on vulnerable populations will be stressed throughout the course. Offered: fall.