The unit introduces students to the principles and practical skills entailed in qualitative research, and should equip students either to plan and carry out qualitative research projects, or to integrate a qualitative component into projects involving quantitative research. Topics covered include: the distinguishing characteristics of qualitative research; ethical issues; main methods of collecting data; sampling in qualitative research; sorting, indexing and analysing qualitative data; use of computers, and writing.
PRESCRIBED TEXT - QUALITATIVE INQUIRY AND RESEARCH DESIGN: CHOOSING AMONG FIVE APPROACHES
RECOMMENDED TEXT - QUALITATIVE RESEARCH: A GUIDE TO DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION
