Qualitative Research in Practice: Examples for Discussion and Analysis

by Sharan B. Merriam

Qualitative research (QR) is the method of inquiry that seeks to understand social phenomena within the context of the participants' perspectives and experiences. The research methods of QR are more flexible, responsive, and open to contextual interpretation than in quantitative research, which uses inventory, questionnaire, or numerical data to draw conclusions. In Qualitative Research in Practice, Sharan Merriam combines discussions of the types of QR with examples of research studies and reflections by the researchers themselves. An important resource for students and practitioners of QR, the book may be used as a companion to any general text on QR.

Genres: Research, Academic

439 pages, Paperback

First published May 28, 2002

Reviews

[Yzobelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked how succinct this book is, straight to the point. The essential theories were given and backed up with concrete examples of cases. I also liked the writing style of Merriam. It sounded very spontaneous as if ethnography, grounded theory, and phenomenology are her daily over-breakfast type of conversation. The casualness with which it is written encourages its readers to plunge into the field of qualitative research.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

so far... sort of boring! But there are some interesting case studies, so I'm interested to read more of them.