This article summarizes descriptive qualitative research, a method used to explore and understand the characteristics and qualities of a phenomenon. The article explains key features of the method, such as the importance of detailed descriptions, open-ended questions, and context and meaning.
It also comprehensively discusses data collection and analysis techniques, including interviews, observations, and thematic analysis. I highlight communication of research findings, along with potential limitations and biases of the method.
Table of Contents
Key Features of the Descriptive Qualitative Research
Descriptive qualitative research is a method of research that is focused on understanding a phenomenon by examining its characteristics and qualities. We use this type of research when we want to explore a topic that has not been studied in depth before, or when we want to gain a better understanding of a previously studied topic but using a different perspective and gain valuable insights in the process.
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Descriptive qualitative research is a type of qualitative research that explores the characteristics of a phenomenon, rather than explaining the underlying causes or mechanisms.
It involves the collection and data analysis in the form of words, images, or other non-numerical forms of information.
Goal of descriptive qualitative research
The goal of descriptive qualitative research is to provide a rich and detailed account of the phenomenon under study. Doing so allows us to develop further research questions. The activity will also help inform policy or practice.
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Applicability of descriptive qualitative research
Researchers in various fields can use descriptive qualitative research, including social sciences, education, psychology, health sciences, and business.
In social sciences, for example, descriptive qualitative research can be used to explore social, cultural, or political issues, and to understand the perspectives and experiences of marginalized or underrepresented groups.
In education, descriptive qualitative research can be used to explore teaching and learning processes, student experiences, and educational practices.
In health sciences, descriptive qualitative research can be used to explore patients’ experiences with illness, healthcare providers’ experiences, and health policies.
Data Collection Methods Used in Descriptive Qualitative Research
The data collection methods used in descriptive qualitative research can vary. Typically, the method involves an observation or interaction with the phenomenon being studied.
Examples include personal interview of individuals who have experience or knowledge of the phenomenon studied, focus group discussion, observing the phenomenon in its natural setting, document analysis or other forms of data collection that apply to the phenomenon.
Strengths of the Descriptive Qualitative Method
Flexible research method
One of the key strengths of descriptive qualitative research is its flexibility. Flexibility means that the method can be used in a wide range of settings. It can be adapted to suit the needs of the researcher and the specific research question being investigated.
Few and easily obtained resources
Descriptive qualitative research can be conducted using relatively few resources, easily accessible, and can often be completed more quickly than other types of research. These resources include the following:
- research participants,
- the researcher,
- data collection tools like interviews, focus group discussions, observations, or document analysis;
- recording equipment, particularly audio or video recorders;
- transcription software for easier and faster transcription; and
- data analysis software like nVivo or ATLAS to facilitate analysis.
Despite these simple requirements, however, researchers must ensure that ethical considerations are adequately complied with (e.g. informed consent, confidentiality, privacy concerns, and data storage).
Compared to quantitative research, descriptive qualitative research can be time-consuming and resource intensive if the aim is to have a thorough and effective research outcome.
Captures the complexity and richness of a phenomenon
Another strength of descriptive qualitative research is its ability to capture the complexity and richness of a phenomenon.
Because this type of research is focused on the exploration of the characteristics and qualities of a phenomenon, it allows researchers to capture a wide range of information about the phenomenon, including its context, history, and cultural significance.
Limitations of Descriptive Qualitative Research
Can be time consuming
Compared to quantitative research, descriptive qualitative research can be time-consuming and resource intensive if the aim is to have a thorough and effective research outcome.
Potential for researcher bias
Because descriptive qualitative research often involves the interpretation of data, researchers may inadvertently introduce their own biases into the analysis. One researcher’s perspective may vary from another researcher’s viewpoint in studying the same phenomenon.
The researcher’s bias can be minimized through careful data collection and analysis techniques, but it is important for researchers to be aware of their own biases and to mitigate their impact on the research.
Does not provide the same level of generalizability as quantitative research methods
Another limitation of descriptive qualitative research is that it may not provide the same level of generalizability as quantitative research methods.
Because we often focus descriptive qualitative research on a specific phenomenon or context, it may not be possible to generalize the findings to other contexts or populations.
However, this does not mean that the findings are not valuable or informative. Descriptive qualitative research can still be an important tool for understanding specific phenomena and contexts.
Steps in Conducting Descriptive Qualitative Research
In order to conduct descriptive qualitative research, researchers typically follow a series of steps. I list them in the following section.
Step 1. Identify the research question or topic of interest
The first step is to identify the research question or topic of interest. Knowledge of the research agenda of an organization or institution where the researcher belongs will be most helpful.
The question should focus on exploring the characteristics and qualities of a phenomenon, rather than explaining its underlying causes or mechanisms.
Step 2. Determine the data collection method or methods to use
The next step is to determine the data collection methods that will be used. This may involve interviewing, observations, or analyzing documents or other forms of data. There should be a one-to-one correspondence between the research questions and the method to use. Thus, preparing a matrix to match the research question, method, and other parts of the research paper will facilitate and ensure that the research objectives are met.
The data collection methods should be chosen based on their ability to provide rich and detailed information about the phenomenon under study.
Step 3. Analyze the data collected
Once the data has been collected, the next step is to analyze it. Analysis may involve coding the data into categories or themes, or using other analytical techniques to identify patterns and relationships within the data.
The goal of the analysis is to develop a rich and detailed understanding of the phenomenon under study. Doing so allows researchers to develop further research questions or inform policy or practice.
Step 4. Disseminate the findings
Finally, the results of the descriptive qualitative research should be communicated to others. This may involve writing a report, presenting the findings at a conference, or publishing the research in a peer-reviewed journal. Other researchers can build on the findings.
In communicating the results, it is important to provide a clear and detailed account of the phenomenon under study and to contextualize the findings within the broader literature on the topic.
Usefulness of the Qualitative Descriptive Research
In conclusion, descriptive qualitative research is a valuable tool for exploring the characteristics and qualities of a phenomenon. It allows researchers to capture the complexity and richness of a phenomenon and provides a detailed understanding of its context, history, and cultural significance.
While there are some limitations to descriptive qualitative research, it can still be an important method for understanding specific phenomena and contexts.
Researchers can use a variety of data collection and analysis techniques to conduct descriptive qualitative research.
Qualitative researchers using qualitative research methods should communicate their findings to others in a clear and detailed manner.
As with any research method, it is important for researchers to approach descriptive qualitative research with a critical eye and to be aware of the potential biases and limitations of the method.
By following careful research procedures and communicating their findings clearly, descriptive qualitative researchers can make valuable contributions to our understanding of a wide range of phenomena.
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