Learning Objectives

Chapter overview and goals

After reading this chapter, you will gain an introductory understanding of:

  • The overall processes of a qualitative research study
  • The history and foundations of qualitative research
  • The key components of qualitative research
  • The core values, beliefs, and assumptions upon which qualitative research is based
  • The role(s) of the researcher in qualitative research
  • A range of key research concepts and terms including: iterative, recursive, positionality, social location, emergent, epistemology, ontology, methodology, criticality in qualitative research, binaries, and dialogic engagement
  • The way the horizontal values of qualitative research, criticality, reflexivity, collaboration, and rigor, influence, shape, and guide all aspects of qualitative research
  • An overview of some of the more commonly used approaches to qualitative research