Introduction

*This image was created using napkin.ai; however, the concept, design direction, and creative vision were conceived by Dr. Knight and Chris Cardenas

Qualitative research offers a way to explore the depth and complexity of human experience. Unlike quantitative methods, which focus on numbers and patterns, qualitative approaches aim to understand meaning, context, and the lived realities of individuals and communities. This chapter introduces key qualitative research designs and the methods used to collect and analyze data.

We begin by exploring the foundations of qualitative inquiry, including major research traditions like grounded theory, phenomenology, and ethnography. These traditions help guide researchers in framing their questions, engaging with participants, and analyzing meaning.

The chapter then introduces the four primary methods of qualitative data collection: interviews, focus groups, observations, and document/media review. You’ll gain insight into conducting semi-structured and in-depth interviews, constructing a practical interview guide, and documenting the research process through tools like field notes, journals, and audio recordings.

We also examine the strengths and limitations of qualitative interviews, emphasizing their value in allowing participants to speak in their own words—but also recognizing their reliance on participant honesty, the time-intensive nature of the process, and the emotional demands it may place on researchers.

In addition to interviewing, we explore participant observation, the ethics of fieldwork, and how to work with archival and historical documents to better understand cultural contexts and social narratives. Whether in a classroom, a community setting, or a digital archive, qualitative research helps us uncover meaning in ways that statistics alone cannot capture.

* AI was used to help organize my thoughts and suggest clarifying sentences, but all ideas and final writing are entirely my own.