Theories and Frameworks in Qualitative Research

Responding to the 13th October Group Skype.

Looking at theories and frameworks in qualitative research.

Every theory exists within a framework and some have multiple that all connect to the larger framework, which helps to put things into some kind of context.

 Lets take the example of learning to drive, the car the framework and the methodologies, the functions gears, ignition lights, the wipers, once learnt the framework of the car dissolves and loosely lies within our awareness, then we learn the methodology of being on the road, then among other cars, we are constantly surrounded by all kinds of frameworks in our existence of daily life.

I have been exploring the four different design frameworks that exist within qualitative research such as phenomenology, ethnography, grounded theory and case study.

Phenomenology: This framework looks into the study of phenomena and that phenomena could be situations, experiences, or events and even concepts.

We exist with phenomena around us where we maybe aware of it but do not fully understand it.

This framework looks at the cause of problem and the effects it has for example if a child has a disabled parent what would be the effect of that child. A phenomenological framework to the research can help fill the gap even if it does have definite answers it can create awareness and insight around this phenomena.

Ethnography: Ethnography exists within a framework of anthropology. This framework focuses on social relationships and gives a description of individual human societies within a scientific framework. A methodology of studying people and cultures.

This approach can be further investigated through geographical, religious, or tribal frameworks.

Grounded theory: This framework is a systematic one that allows, flexible collection of data, through theory and theories. The data is collected through interviews and observing literature. A theory is a set of concepts that are integrated through a series of relational statements (Hague, 1972). The data is coded, connections and emerging patterns are identified, from what has been said by people or events that have been observed which can lead to new ideas and theory.

This is where the theory is grounded in the data.

Case study: This framework deals with the holistic study of events, people, projects, policies institutions or systems through one or many methods.

This approach of study can be done in life sciences and social science descriptive or explanatory. In case study three distinguished frameworks of cases are identified as key cases, Outlier cases and local knowledge cases. This kind of research framework is multi-purpose, which presents a well and wealth of information to the researcher.