Wrapping Up
Topic 2: Data Collection
Topic 2: Data Collection
Leaving the field each day
Leaving the field
Qualitative research often entails extensive time spent at the research site(s) and/or with participants who will help you answer your research questions. It is not uncommon to develop lasting relationships with the participants who become your key informants. This reality makes the process of leaving the field something to think about. It is important to think about how you will “exit” the field. What will you tell the gatekeepers? What will you promise them about member checking or dissemination or continued friendship? How will you express your gratitude for allowing you to engage in research with them?
Write a plan for what you hope to tell gatekeepers and/or other participants in your research site(s) when it’s time to exit the field.
- Good (qualitative) data is good when it is captured in depth (thick description).
- Data can only be thoroughly analyzed if it is recorded/written up as close to the observation as possible.
- Set a goal for yourself: type up your observation data within 24 hours of the observation.
- Decide if/how you will transcribe your interview data. Be sure to allocate time to proof reading the completed transcript against the recording.
- Data saturation
- Dependent on your research questions, your ability to collect good data, and the cooperation of the participants
- It’s recommended to meet with your chair to determine whether you can complete data collection
Leaving the field
Qualitative research often entails extensive time spent at the research site(s) and/or with participants who will help you answer your research questions. It is not uncommon to develop lasting relationships with the participants who become your key informants. This reality makes the process of leaving the field something to think about. It is important to think about how you will “exit” the field. What will you tell the gatekeepers? What will you promise them about member checking or dissemination or continued friendship? How will you express your gratitude for allowing you to engage in research with them?
Write a plan for what you hope to tell gatekeepers and/or other participants in your research site(s) when it’s time to exit the field.
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