Qualitative Research Methods and Analysis

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Qualitative Research Methods and Analysis (HDS501)

Synopsis

HDS501 will train students to collect, interpret and analyse qualitative research data. At the same time, the course will familiarize students on the philosophical foundations of qualitative research and be made aware of potential ethical issues that can emerge when conducting qualitative research. Special focus will be given to the use of interviews and focus group discussions, along with the use of the latest qualitative data analysis software. Finally, students will be taught the essential elements of organizing, articulating and presenting qualitative data. For PhD students, their assignment/project would focus on their dissertation research topic.

Level: 5
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY JULY

Topics

What is Qualitative Research?
Philosophical Foundations of Qualitative Research
Ethical issues
Qualitative Research Design (1) – Grounded Theory
Qualitative Research Design (2) – Case Studies
Qualitative Research Design (3) – Ethnography
Collecting Qualitative Data (1) – Interviews and Focus Groups
Collecting Qualitative Data (2) – Participant and Non-Participant Observations, Documentary Data
Analysing Qualitative Data (1) – Grounded Theory Analysis
Analysing Qualitative Data (2) – Content Analysis and Other Analytic approaches
Introduction to Qualitative Data Analysis Software
Presenting Qualitative Data: Reports and Publications

Learning Outcome

Discuss the core concepts and principles of qualitative research.
Evaluate the strengths and limitations of various qualitative data collection methods
Appraise the different modes of qualitative data analysis.
Design appropriate qualitative data collection methods for social research.
Analyse qualitative data using different techniques and appropriate software.
Construct appropriate and scholarly presentations of qualitative data.