Qualitative Research and Data Analysis

Qualitative Research and Data Analysis is the course that introduces undergraduate students to the principles and practices of qualitative research in social sciences and education. Students will explore qualitative research paradigms, research ethics, and the role of the researcher as the primary instrument in data collection and interpretation.

The course covers key qualitative research designs such as case study, phenomenology, ethnography, and narrative inquiry. Students will learn various data collection techniques including interviews, observations, focus group discussions, and document analysis. Emphasis is placed on ethical considerations, reflexivity, and ensuring credibility and trustworthiness of qualitative research.

In addition, the course provides practical training in qualitative data analysis. Students will develop skills in coding, categorizing, and interpreting qualitative data using thematic analysis and basic qualitative analysis software. By the end of the course, students are expected to design a simple qualitative research proposal and conduct basic data analysis to support academic research and final projects.