A Qualitative Approach to Document Analysis

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 3:45 pm - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Rethinking Qualitative Research in Virtual Spaces: Ethics, Inclusion, and Methodological Adaptation

Abstract

Researchers can encounter several obstacles when searching for guidelines on how to conduct a qualitative document analysis. One of these involves the confusing terms methodologists frequently use when describing research methods. These terms can lead researchers to select a mixed methods approach that they misidentify as qualitative. Another obstacle relates to the lack of literature with clear guidelines on how to conduct a qualitative document analysis. In this paper, I describe what qualitative document analysis is in relation to the paradigms researchers refer to when classifying studies according to whether they consist of quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods research. I also provide clear steps for completing this kind of research.

Author

• Hani Morgan, University of Southern Mississippi