Research Methodology: Qualitative Methods of Data Collection

1727 Words4 Pages

In the previous chapters I discussed the problem of the lack of healthy eating promotion programs in schools are leaving parents and students uneducated about how to purchase healthy items which is leading to childhood obesity. I also discussed how the problem is being addressed, as well as the theory of social constructionism. In this chapter, I will discuss the specific methodology I plan to use and the three different types of data collection I plan to employ to carry out my study. This study will use a qualitative approach to study and address the issue of the lack of healthy eating promotion in schools. The three types of data collection I plan to use are: direct observation, focus groups and a questionnaire. These methods will be clarified later in this chapter. Rationale for Qualitative Methodology Qualitative research is an approach that attempts to situate an activity that locates the observer in the world by providing the study to occur in their natural setting and by attempting to make sense of, or interpret information (Denzin and Lincoln, 2005). A characteristic of qualitative research is to use a variety of empirical materials such as personal experience, interviews, and questionnaires. It is imperative to understand the task at hand and how to fully carry out the study when using a qualitative research approach in order to find out the information needed. One view of qualitative research is it involves examining individual’s experiences and documenting those experiences in detail (Jones, 2011). By documenting these observations the researcher is ensuring validity in his or her data and giving the correct creditability to those who participated in the study. Creditability is an important aspect of a q... ... middle of paper ... ...romoting Physical Activity and a Healthful Diet Among Children: Results of a School-Based Intervention Study. American Journal of Public Health, 81(8), 986-991. Story,M, Resnick,M.(2000). Adolescents’ Views on Food and Nutrition. Adolescent Health, University of Minnesota, 1-6. Tashakkori, A. (2003). Handbook of Mixed Methods in Social and Behavioral Research. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications. The Center for Disease and Prevention. (2010). Retrieved February 14, 2011 from CDC:http://www.cdc.gov. Toly, D. (2005). "What's in the Package?" Rethinking Grab-and-Go Lunches. Journal of Nutrition Education & Behavior, 37S113-S114. Trochim, W. (2006). Research Methods Knowledge Base: Cornell University: Atomic Dog Publishing. Young,E,Fors,S.(2001). Factors Related to the Eating Habits of Students in Grades 9-12. Journal of School Health, 71(10), 483-488.

Open Document