articleQualitative SociologyFeb 27, 2019HYBRID OA

What is Qualitative in Qualitative Research

PAPatrik AspersUCUgo Corte

Uppsala University · University of Stavanger

PubMed
Indexed incrossrefpubmed

Abstract

What is qualitative research? If we look for a precise definition of qualitative research, and specifically for one that addresses its distinctive feature of being "qualitative," the literature is meager. In this article we systematically search, identify and analyze a sample of 89 sources using or attempting to define the term "qualitative." Then, drawing on ideas we find scattered across existing work, and based on Becker's classic study of marijuana consumption, we formulate and illustrate a definition that tries to capture its core elements. We define qualitative research as an iterative process in which improved understanding to the scientific community is achieved by making new significant distinctions…

Citation impact

1,205
total citations
FWCI
267.26
Percentile
100%
References
116
Citations per year

Authors

2

Topics & keywords

Topics
Keywords
  • Qualitative research
  • Management science
  • Dimension (graph theory)
  • Computer science
  • Process (computing)
  • Phenomenon
  • Qualitative property
  • Cross-cultural psychology
No related works found for this paper.

Funding