Qualitative Methods in Policy Research

Catalog description

During a policy intervention, how can we learn from the lived experience of program participants, patients, and the community? Are their lived experiences able to generate innovative and alternative policy solutions? These are some of the questions that strategies of qualitative inquiry can address. Qualitative inquiry provides much needed nuance and complexity that complements quantitative data, enhancing our understanding of social problems, and identification of people-centered solutions. Qualitative methods can empower individuals and communities and act as a conduit for their voices. For example, why do Black patients who have Black physicians report better outcomes? How do the lived experiences of people experiencing poverty establish different needs and solutions for achieving economic stability? This course introduces students to a range of qualitative approaches that can yield insights for use in policy development and analysis. Students will learn how to conceptualize qualitative research questions, select appropriate methods, and develop skills through doing. Course topics include: research ethics, field observation, semi-structured interviewing, focus groups, coding, and analysis. Students who are currently developing their own research projects are encouraged to use this course to refine their methodological framework.