Topic 5
Data collection issues in qualitative research
| Objective 5: Examine the data collection issues for a qualitative study, including the relationships between the researcher and the participants and the reflections of the researcher on the meaning of the data. |
| What are some data collection issues in qualitative research? |
Generally the data collection techniques will vary with the qualitative approach. However, in qualitative research there is no random sampling, sampling is called purposive sampling. Samples are small, often ten to twelve people. Sampling in qualitative studies focuses on the quality of the information not the quantity of participants. Participants are recruited until saturation occurs, or the point is reached in which no new information is discovered.
During data collection, the researcher must stay true to the data with the goal of trying to accurately reflect the reality of the participant. This can be difficult because the researcher-participant relationship can be problematic. The researcher may end up identifying with the participant, lose his or her scientific objectivity, and end up “going native.” This can have an impact on data collection and analysis. The researcher tries not to be intrusive, and tries to function as an instrument for research but must accept that there is a subjective bias. The researcher affects what is studied and how it is studied.
Informed consent can be an issue in observational research. The decision to obtain informed consent must balance respect for humans and the need to collect data. Because the design emerges as data collection progresses, consent would need to be renegotiated. Also, as new data emerges, the study may shift focus, which may not be comfortable to participants.