What is Qualitative Research?

This is primarily aimed at first- and second-year undergraduates interested in psychology, data analysis, and qualitative research methods along with high school students and professionals with similar interests. This introduction to qualitative research in psychology provides an in-depth exploration of individuals' lived experiences through methods like interviews and observations. It delves into the historical, philosophical, and cross-disciplinary foundations of qualitative research, illustrating these foundations with a variety of examples, activities, and self-assessments. The course aims to foster an understanding of how qualitative inquiry adds depth and nuance to our comprehension of individual and collective human experiences. It addresses the common critiques of qualitative research and introduces the four trustworthiness criteria that researchers use in evaluating the soundness of a given qualitative study. The course also emphasizes the role of the researcher and the close relationships between the inquirer and participants in qualitative studies.