Nesrullah - Grounded theory involves the collection and analysis of data. The theory is “grounded” in actual data, which means the analysis and development of theories happens after you have collected the data. It was introduced by Glaser & Strauss in 1967 to legitimize qualitative research. The primary purpose of this design strategy is to evolve or “ground” a theory in the context in which the phenomenon under study occurs. Grounded theory differs from either qualitative content analysis or thematic analysis because it has its own distinctive set of procedures, including theoretical sampling and open coding. I think it is a good idea to use grounded theory to get perception of how teachers look through the eyes of students. There is no problem in using the imaginary scenarios as stimulus for their responses and get their answers accordingly as well as having interviews. The only point is that you need to use grounded theory as a research strategy.

Dear Manzoor,

Thanks for your answer.

The problem I see with using scenarios is that creating them requires preconceptions about what might or might not matter to the participants who are responding. In grounded theory, we usually want to hear the participants' own perspectives about what matters, with a minimum of preconceived input from the researcher.

One alternative would be to begin by listening to the participants' responses to more open-ended questions, and then to create the scenarios based on that first round of interviewing.

The use of imaginary scenarios, or vignettes is a method ythat can be used in research. Maybe these references can be helpful for you?

Barter, C., Renold, E., 1999. The use of vignettes in qualitative research. Social Research Update 25.

Bradbury-Jones, C., Taylor, J., Herber, O.R., 2014. Vignette development and administration: a framework for protecting research participants. International Journal of Social Research Methodology 17, 427-440.

I have used vignettes myself in research and the method was very useful.

I agree with David, above; this strategy is in line with Barney Glaser's counsel to never ask a respondent a direct (preconceived) question which would force data.

In a qualitative semi-structured interview there is a range of different questions that a researcher can use. I don't see why not to use imaginary scenarios as such one option; or to show a media content as a triger in order to ask the interviewee in regards, etc. Of course, the interview should include more than just that one question.

Thank you for your question. I think you need to study grounded theory, I recommend reading this book-

The Discovery of Grounded Theory: Strategies for Qualitative Research

by Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss | Jan 7, 2000

Thank you very much Mr. Azer.