As a consumer of research reports, the most important things for me in the methods and results sections of a high-quality qualitative research report are:
– Appropriate research design that addresses the purpose of the study
– Appropriate method for collecting data
o Data collection is ethical and thoughtful
– The researchers establish the trustworthiness and dependability of their study by:
o Using at least three acceptable strategies to validate their findings
o Researchers identify any possible biases
Short but sweet. I feel if a qualitative research study meets the above criteria it is likely to be reliable and could be a valuable resource if it is relevant to your research. I should note, I prefer quantitative studies over qualitative as I find qualitative to be subjective.
Discussion question:
Is there a way to combine quantitative and qualitative research studies that would add value to one’s research?
References
Chan, K. W. C, & So, G. B. K. (2017). Cultivating servant leaders in secondary schooling. Servant Leadership: Theory and Practice, 4(1), 12-31. Retrieved from http://www.sltpjournal.org/uploads/2/6/3/9/26394582/03chan_so_vol_4_issue_1.pdf
Plano-Clark, V., & Creswell, J. (2015). Understanding research: A consumer’s guide (2nd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.
https://create.twu.ca/ldrs591-sp18/unit-6-learning-activities/