Qualitative Methodology
A Practical Guide
- Jane Mills - James Cook University, Australia
- Melanie Birks - James Cook University, Australia
Expert researchers then trace the history and philosophical underpinnings of different methodologies, explore the specific demands each places upon the researcher and robustly set out relevant issues surrounding quality and rigor. Featured methodologies include action research, discourse analysis, ethnography, grounded theory, case studies and narrative inquiry.
This practical book provides a helpful guide to the research process - it introduces the relevant methods of generating, collecting and analysing data for each discrete methodology and then looks at best practice for presenting findings. This enables new researchers to compare qualitative methods and to confidently select the approach most appropriate for their own research projects.
Key features include:
- Summary table for each chapter - allowing quick checks to test knowledge
- 'Window into' sections - real world examples showing each methodology in action
- Student activities
- Learning objectives
- Full glossary
- Annotated suggestions for further reading
- Links to downloadable SAGE articles
- Links to relevant websites and organizations
This is an invaluable resource for students and researchers across the social sciences and a must-have guide for those embarking on a research project.
Supplements
This is a great book and I have recommended it for students on the MA Education. We are also due to run a new MRes in Education next year and we will be recommending to those students as well.
The book is good and easy to comprehend by the students. A number of the students have made purchases.
Recommended for supplemental reading for greater research understanding.
A useful explanation of the more activist/action orientated end of the qualitative methodology scale. However, the authors allegiances - both disciplinary and methodologically - compromise its applicability for a course covering all qualitative research approaches. I can see this book being most useful as a recommendation to an advanced student with a clear idea of their position, but too biased for novices or initial group teaching.
Good supplement with great practical examples
An excellent, succinct introduction to a wide range of qualitative methodologies, framed with an accessible explanation of the philosophical and theoretical grounding for those methodologies
This book is a friendly guide for students who are exploring qualitative methodology. It is more approachable than many qualitative books due to the use of interesting examples throughout the book. As well as outlining the major approaches to qualitative research the book also has sections on quality and practical philosophy which are essential to orientate students to what qualitative research is. The activity sections are a nice touch and allow the reader to reflect on what they have just read, likewise the recommended further reading sections are very helpful and practical guides for students.
Really useful book for teaching and doing your own research. Recommended.
This is a great book for undergraduates to get familiar with qualitative research process. I have encourage my students to read it before embarking on their projects.
