Qualitative Methodology Essay

1. Assumptions specific to qualitative research: Qualitative methodology depends on text and image data analysis, and draws on varied designs.1 Qualitative methodology is more loosely structured compared to a quantitative method utilizing more of statistical approach, which could lead researchers to think their results maybe more scrutinized. However qualitative methodology can in fact be used to develop theories, and apply to a wide range of research areas. With case studies being a qualitative method to conduct research claims theory development via case studies is primarily an inductive process. 2 In other words theories can be developed from case studies as the research attempts to transcend from a more specific idea, to becoming

Data collected by someone else; for another purpose, is a viable option for a researcher with limited time and resources.6 This method like other traditional methods of research follows a systematic model to include, developing research questions, identifying a data set, etc. Some advantages of utilizing secondary data include; the researcher not having devote finances for research, efficiency of conducting research, and provides researchers with opportunities to engage in work to test new ideas, theories, frameworks, and models of research design.

Two major drawbacks include; the researcher not being a part of the primary research team, the researcher did not physically collect the data. To mitigate this, Johnston recommended that a researcher essentially go to and engage the source of the research/data to substantiate any scrutiny that may arise. This is no different than an intelligence officer’s goal of obtaining direct access information from local sources. If it is proven that information was collected directly from the source, and corroborated through other entities, the information is deemed more credible and taken more seriously when