The language of qualitative research can be confusing
The language of qualitative research can be confusing. The words sound like regular English, but they have very particular meanings. To make the language even more complicated, the definitions can vary across different qualitative methodological scholars.
For the purpose of this course, distinctions between two important concepts should be considered:
1. Theoretical framework: the use of constructs and propositions a recognized theory (or theories) to a research problem, purpose, and question.
• Examples: Social Influence theory, transformational leadership theory, game theory
2. Conceptual framework: the construction of ideas, assumptions, and beliefs sourced in both the literature and one’s own experience, which identify the main concepts that guide the formulation of the research problem, purpose, and question.
• Examples: Concepts from positive psychology, mindfulness meditation, language development models
To prepare for this Discussion:
Sample Solution
What exactly is qualitative research? If we want a precise definition of qualitative research, particularly one that addresses its distinguishing trait of being “qualitative,” the literature is scant. In this article, we search, identify, and analyze 89 publications that use or attempt to define the term “qualitative.” Then, building on ideas strewn across current literature and Becker’s famous research of marijuana consumption, we create and illustrate a definition that attempts to encapsulate its fundamental aspects. We define qualitative research as an iterative process in which the scientific community gains a better knowledge of the subject being examined by creating new meaningful distinctions.
