QRMSS Ch. 1 Intro. to Qualitative Research

Chapter 1 of QRMSS introduces the field of qualitative research. Much focus is put into symbolic interactionism theory and how people pursue ideas differently. How we form our identities are not just our own ideas, but also others' perspective of us. Social learning theory also comes into play with qualitative research, the theory that behavior is learned. Therefore, when conducting research, we should adhere to that and be careful not to make assumptions. It is important however, to see both the internal and external characteristics of whom we are interviewing.

In chapter 1, the Twenty-Statement Test was mentioned, and we partook in that exercise in class. The Twenty-Statement Test is an exercise that asks us how we perceive ourselves, both externally (social roles) and internally (characteristics we possess), Berg, B. L. (2001) pp. 11-12. My results were balanced, 11 external and 9 internal. I believe that reflects me well. While I can be highly introspective, I know when to switch into external/social mode. My work as a hairstylist for many years has drawn me out of my shell. It also has taught me how to be a careful listener. I'm naturally an empathetic person, and I hope both these qualities will come in handy in my qualitative research. These ideas of self identity are not fixed, (qualitative data is never fixed), so as researchers, we should be aware that interviewing people at different times can result in different answers depending on how that person feels that day.

The topic of qualitative vs quantitative research is brought up as well. While quantitative research is expressed through numbers, counts and measures (ex.: a census), qualitative research is the story behind the numbers. Qualitative research being dependent upon quantitative research (sometimes can't exist without the other).

In qualitative research we use everything possible to assure validity and reliability of our information, that it is quality assessed. I liked the adjectives Professor Casso used to emphasize what we as qualitative researches look for,"rich, thick, descriptions". We also use triangulation. This is three known points working to center, with multiple lines in sight. We triangulate theories through methodologies and can also triangulate researchers.

This is 'scientific journalism', and we must be careful, responsible and thoughtful as to not misinterpret a person's view of themselves. We are ultimately looking at how people interpret THEIR world.