The main tenets of qualitative research methods

Full Answer Section

• Rich Data Collection: Techniques like interviews, focus groups, and observations gather detailed qualitative data like narratives, descriptions, and visuals.
• Interpretive Analysis: Researchers interpret the data to identify themes, patterns, and relationships within the context of the study.
• Flexibility: The research design can adapt as new insights emerge during the research process.

Suitable Applications in Social Work:

1. Understanding Client Experiences: Qualitative methods can help social workers gain deeper insights into the lived experiences of their clients. For example, a study using interviews and focus groups could explore the challenges faced by homeless youth or the impact of a new support program on families dealing with addiction.

2. Evaluating Program Effectiveness: While quantitative data can measure program outcomes, qualitative research can capture the program's impact on participants' lives, their perceptions of its effectiveness, and unforeseen benefits or drawbacks. Interviews or focus groups could be used to understand how a job training program has empowered participants or how a support group has fostered social connections.

Sampling Methods

1. Probability Sampling:

• Ensures every member of the population has a known chance of being selected.
• Types include:
  • Simple Random Sampling: Each member has an equal chance of selection. Useful for small populations.
  • Stratified Sampling: Population is divided into subgroups (strata), and a random sample is drawn from each. Ensures representation of subgroups.
  • Cluster Sampling: Population is divided into clusters, and some clusters are randomly selected. Useful for geographically dispersed populations.

2. Non-Probability Sampling:

• Does not guarantee every member has a chance of being selected.
• Types include:
  • Convenience Sampling: Selecting readily available participants. May not be representative of the entire population.
  • Snowball Sampling: Asking participants to recommend others who fit the criteria. Useful for hard-to-reach populations but can lead to biased samples.
  • Purposive Sampling: Selecting participants with specific characteristics relevant to the research question. Used to gain in-depth understanding from a specific population segment.

Choosing the Right Method:

The choice between probability and non-probability sampling depends on the research question and resources available. Probability sampling is ideal for generalizability and making claims about the whole population, while non-probability sampling is valuable for exploratory research or gaining insights from specific populations.

Sample Answer

Qualitative Research Methods in Social Work

Main Tenets:

Qualitative research methods prioritize in-depth understanding and exploration of social phenomena. Here are some key tenets:

• Focus on Meaning: Researchers aim to understand the lived experiences, perspectives, and meanings people attach to their experiences.
• Inductive Approach: Knowledge emerges from the data itself, rather than starting with a pre-determined hypothesis.