Collecting Qualitative Data
A Field Manual for Applied Research
- Greg Guest - FHI 360, Social Research Solutions
- Emily E. Namey - FHI 360, Social Research Solutions
- Marilyn L. Mitchell - Gray Insight Research
Collecting Qualitative Data: A Field Manual for Applied Research provides a very practical, step-by-step guide to collecting and managing qualitative data. The data collection chapters focus on the three most often used forms of qualitative data collection: Participant observation, in-depth interviews, and focus groups. The book also contains chapters on other practical aspects of qualitative field research often neglected in textbooks, including sampling, data management, research ethics, and supplementary data collection activities. Designed as an instructional field manual, this textbook incorporates many checklists and tips for how to use each technique while doing research. The book also includes numerous real-life examples and cases, making it easy for readers to see the broader picture.
“The real strength of the text is the hands on approach: How to actually do field research rather than just thinking about it. The examples are wonderful. The text is written in a very accessible way for students. It is not filled with jargon. I also like the attention to focus groups as a research method separate from individual interviews. The attention in each chapter to conducting qualitative research in international settings is unique and a real strength of this text.”
Too Narrow a topic for an introductory counseling research class. Does not include program evaluation as required by state licensing boards.
I am an Academic Quality Reviewer of dissertations and I use this book and recommend it to other reviewers. I also cite it in the research courses I teach.
A very thorough introduction to core qualitative methods for the professions.
Great text. Fantastic format. We used this in the Fall and can't wait to adopt it for our Master's theses students in the Spring!
Use for dissertation support and as a "field manual" to assist students in understanding the processes of conducting applied research