What are common mistakes in writing qualitative studies?

I try to give my point of view as I experienced in my Ph.D. research writing-

The answer is in two parts first part deals with the background part which is the formation of the research question and the second part is the reporting of the findings.

FIRST PART before the data collection starts:

The development of research questions and the subsequent hypotheses are prerequisites to defining the main research purpose and specific objectives of a study.

It is crucial to have knowledge of both quantitative and qualitative research. There is a continuing need to support researchers in the creation of innovative research questions and hypotheses.

A research question is what a study aims to answer after data analysis and interpretation. On the other hand, a research hypothesis is an educated statement of an expected outcome.

Excellent research questions are specific and focused. These integrate collective data and observations to confirm or refute the subsequent hypotheses. Well-constructed hypotheses are based on previous reports and verify the research context.

Excellent research questions lead to superior hypotheses, which, like a compass, set the direction of research, and can often determine the successful conduct of the study. Many research studies have floundered because the development of research questions and subsequent hypotheses was not given the thought and meticulous attention needed. The development of research questions and hypotheses is an iterative process based on extensive knowledge of the literature and an insightful grasp of the knowledge gap.

SECOND PART- Reporting findings

Qualitative research is a very popular form of research, Here I am trying to list some of the most common mistakes as a research we make, as well as tips for avoiding those mistakes.

*Problem of small sample size:- The limited number of respondents is too small to draw conclusions. Because of these limitations, the data gathered does not result in a geographic or demographic representative sample to draw broad, projectable conclusions.

*NOT doing follow-up:- Like quantitative research due to timing or budget constraints, the follow-up quantitative phase never happens, researchers are making major decisions in a qualitative study, based on feedback from only a few.

*Using qualitative data in lieu of quantitative data can be grossly misleading. This “data” was collected from a small number of samples and cannot be used as if it were from a quantitative study with a larger sample size.

*And, even though everyone heard the same comments, different observers can come away with different thoughts on what they witnessed.

The best way to avoid these potential conflicts is to schedule a debriefing at the end of the day after the wrap-up. This allows for the clients running the qualitative work to have a discussion on what they believe they heard and can lead to a consensus rather than everyone walking away with a different take.

*Like any piece of research, the output is only as good as the input. To maximize the productivity of your discussion, make sure your moderator is well prepared by meeting with your moderator in advance to have a detailed conversation about your objectives, specific points to cover, and any stimuli you might show to respondents. The communication with your moderator should be ongoing. Between groups, talk to your moderator about what worked well and what did not, and discuss how to modify the discussion going forward. The more you communicate with your moderator during the entire process, the more you will get out of the research.

For more info, one may read the online article by using the link given below:

1. Article Five Steps to Writing More Engaging Qualitative Research

2. https://www.linkedin.com/advice/3/what-most-common-mistakes-when-conducting-qualitative-c2ade

3. Article A Practical Guide to Writing Quantitative and Qualitative Re...

Len Leonid Mizrah

Writing qualitative studies requires careful attention to detail and a nuanced understanding of the research process. Common mistakes in writing qualitative studies include:

Lack of Clarity in Research Questions and Objectives: Mistake: Vague or ambiguous research questions and objectives. Solution: Clearly articulate the purpose of the study, the research questions, and the objectives to guide the research.

Insufficient Theoretical Framework: Mistake: Failing to provide a strong theoretical framework or not connecting the study to existing theoretical perspectives. Solution: Clearly present the theoretical foundations that guide the study and explain how they inform the research design and analysis.

Inadequate Sampling and Participant Selection: Mistake: Poorly justified or inadequately described sampling methods. Solution: Clearly describe the sampling strategy, justify participant selection, and discuss how saturation (data redundancy) was achieved.

Weak Data Collection Methods: Mistake: Inconsistent or unclear data collection procedures. Solution: Provide detailed information about data collection methods, including interviews, observations, or document analysis, and discuss the steps taken to ensure rigor and reliability.

Limited Reflexivity: Mistake: Lack of reflexivity regarding the researcher's role and potential biases. Solution: Include a reflexive discussion addressing the researcher's background, biases, and their impact on the study. Acknowledge and address potential sources of bias.

Inadequate Data Analysis: Mistake: Superficial or poorly explained data analysis. Solution: Clearly describe the analytical approach, such as thematic analysis, grounded theory, or content analysis. Provide examples of codes or themes and explain the process of data interpretation.

Insufficient Use of Quotations: Mistake: Failing to include enough direct quotations from participants. Solution: Integrate participant quotations to support key findings and demonstrate the trustworthiness of interpretations.

Overgeneralization of Findings: Mistake: Drawing broad generalizations without sufficient evidence. Solution: Clearly articulate the limitations of the study and avoid making sweeping generalizations. Emphasize the context-specific nature of qualitative findings.

Neglecting Ethical Considerations: Mistake: Inadequate discussion of ethical considerations and participant consent. Solution: Clearly describe ethical procedures, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality, and addressing any potential harm to participants.

Poor Organization and Presentation: Mistake: Incoherent or poorly organized presentation of findings. Solution: Present findings in a logical and coherent manner. Use clear headings and subheadings to guide the reader through the research process.

Neglecting Member Checking: Mistake: Failing to check findings with participants for validation. Solution: Consider member checking as part of the research process. Present findings to participants and seek their feedback to enhance the credibility of the study.

Being mindful of these potential pitfalls and taking steps to address them can contribute to the overall quality and rigor of qualitative research writing.

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