Thinking Qualitatively
Methods of Mind
- Johnny Saldana - Arizona State University, USA
Written in Johnny Saldaña's elegant and accessible style, Thinking Qualitatively: Methods of Mind boldly pursues the challenge of teaching students not just how to collect and analyze data, but how to actively think about them. Each chapter presents one “method of mind” (thinking analytically, realistically, symbolically, ethically, multidisciplinarily, artistically, summarily, interpretively, and narratively), together with applications, a vignette or story related to the thinking modality, points to remember, and exercises. Designed to help researchers “rise above the data,” the book explores how qualitative research designs, data collection, data analyses, and write-ups can be enriched through over 60 different lenses, filters, and angles on social life. Venturing into more evocative and multidimensional ways to examine the complex patterns of daily living, the book reveals how the researcher's mind thinks heuristically to transcend the descriptive and develop "highdeep" insights about the human condition.
Click here for a listing of Johnny Saldaña's upcoming workshops.
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Supplements
Use the Student Study Site to get the most out of your course!
Our Student Study Site at study.sagepub.com/saldana is completely open-access and offers a wide range of additional features, including something no other publisher offers: SAGE Journal articles!
The open-access Student Study Site includes the following:
- Mobile-friendly eFlashcards reinforce understanding of key terms and concepts that have been outlined in the chapters.
- EXCLUSIVE! Access to certain full-text SAGE journal articles have been carefully selected for each chapter. Each article supports and expands on the concepts presented in the chapter.
"This is book for all qualitative methodologists. Not just a “how-to” manual but an epistemological exercise in understanding qualitative methods."
"This book fills an important void in the field. The market is crowded with books on techniques and strategies for conducting qualitative research. Saldaña’s volume provides a vital complement by encouraging students to develop the core analytical skills and interpretive frames they need to be truly successful in their research endeavors. He helps students flex and hone the epistemological muscles that are at the center of capable qualitative research."
"The focus of the book is clear and consistent. The writing is superb. It deals with sophisticated ideas in a clear and highly communicative style. It weaves important and relevant scholarship in ways that help the reader grasp the key ideas. It’s one of the best books I have read (and I have read hundreds…). I will recommend it to all my doctoral advisees, as well as to the students in my classes."
"Thinking Qualitatively invites students to think before they act, and offers a rich set of options for qualitative researchers to consider."
"This book brings together key ways of thinking about our work as qualitative researchers. In many ways, it captures the breadth and depth of our work, while calling for us to be ever reflexive about our practices. I see this book as positively informing the work of novice and experienced researchers. It is a much needed addition to the qualitative research community."
Thinking Qualitatively offers many notable strengths for readers looking to discover creative approaches to qualitative inquiry, both including and beyond thinking poetically. Throughout the book, Saldaña provides detailed examples of qualitative reflection on interpersonal communication, paying strong attention to the nuances of these interactions. The exercises he includes at the end of each chapter create space for inquirers’ emotions as well as our thoughts—a unique feature of the text that makes it not only exciting but also deeply affirming.
This is a well written and perfectly organised book that adresses fundamental aspects related to qualitative research. It deals with multiple study designs, but still manages to remain a clear focus on the key issue: the multiple ways in which we are thinking during analytical processes. Useful for students, teachers and researchers.
Such an inspiring book about thinking, in so many modes. An essential book for those who wonder why we think like we do and where do theories come from? Dissertation students of all levels could benefit from this text.
IIt offers a reach set of options for thinking qualitatively. Good ideas and very communicative style.
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