First Time Jitters: My Experiences on a Qualitative Research Team

• In Event: Self as Instrument: Leveraging Qualitative Research to Develop Scholarly Voice in Minoritized Emerging Scholars

Abstract

In fall of 2023, I stumbled upon PURPOSE, a research development program for underrepresented students, and I've been so grateful ever since. Prior to being accepted as a PURPOSE fellow, as a first year master's student, I had no qualitative research experience as I'd been conducting solely quantitative research. Becoming a PURPOSE scholar slotted me the opportunity to take part in my mentor's research which included being part of a qualitative data analysis team.

The leadership was extremely kind and helpful as they taught me the ins and out of qualitative data analysis. I've learned to conduct first round coding and be part of editing the code book to encompass all of the relevant and necessary facets of our analysis. I've also learned to effectively communicate on a research team rather than simply conducting research alone. Through this opportunity, I've gained skills such as cleaning transcripts using both audio recordings and transcription services, using coding software, and learning to recognize my own biases in data analysis. As a psychology student, I understand that people's narrative and experience within the context of their unique lens is extremely valuable, especially in marginalized communities where research amplifies people’s voices. As a researcher, I understand how important this is and am empowered and eager to continue my ventures in qualitative research.

Author

• Faith Scriven, Florida A&M University