Qualitative Methods: How, When and by Whom Should They Be Used
Sunday, 16 September 2007 - 1:30 - 5:00 pm
presented by Clare Moynihan PhD and Priscilla Alderson PhD, FRSA

Target Audience: Researchers working within the field of psycho-oncology

Workshop Objectives:

1. To explore the background of qualitative research.

2. To be able to ascertain when this methodology (in whichever form) is appropriate and when it is not.

Workshop Description:

This workshop will explore the philosophy behind the concept of 'qualitative' research. A critique of positivist methods will be made as well as the limitations of a qualitative approach in inappropriate situations. This critical appraisal will raise the issue of ethics in qualitative research, what it is, what forms it takes, what are its strengths and weaknesses. It will also explore the details that should be looked for in a research proposal such as the content of the research question and the appropriateness of the particular qualitative methodology to be used, how samples are selected and how the analysis is to be carried out. Past work carried out by qualitative researchers will illustrate the points made. The workshop will be interactive and discussion will be encouraged.