Showing papers on "Grounded theory published in 2013"

Qualitative inquiry & research design : choosing among five approaches

Abstract: Chapter 1. Introduction Chapter 2. Philosophical Assumptions and Interpretive Frameworks Chapter 3. Designing a Qualitative Study Chapter 4. Five Qualitative Approaches to Inquiry Chapter 5. Five Different Qualitative Studies Chapter 6. Introducing and Focusing the Study Chapter 7. Data Collection Chapter 8. Data Analysis and Representation Chapter 9. Writing a Qualitative Study Chapter 10. Standards of Validation and Reliability in Qualitative Research Chapter 11. "Turning the Story" and Conclusion Appendix A. An Annotated Glossary of Terms Appendix B. A Narrative Research Study Appendix C. A Phenomenological Study Appendix D. A Grounded Theory Study Appendix E. An Ethnography Appendix F. A Case Study

Seeking Qualitative Rigor in Inductive Research: Notes on the Gioia Methodology

Abstract: For all its richness and potential for discovery, qualitative research has been critiqued as too often lacking in scholarly rigor. The authors summarize a systematic approach to new concept development and grounded theory articulation that is designed to bring “qualitative rigor” to the conduct and presentation of inductive research.

‘Unsatisfactory Saturation’: a critical exploration of the notion of saturated sample sizes in qualitative research:

Abstract: Measuring quality in qualitative research is a contentious issue with diverse opinions and various frameworks available within the evidence base. One important and somewhat neglected argument within this field relates to the increasingly ubiquitous discourse of data saturation. While originally developed within grounded theory, theoretical saturation, and later termed data/thematic saturation for other qualitative methods, the meaning has evolved and become transformed. Problematically this temporal drift has been treated as unproblematic and saturation as a marker for sampling adequacy is becoming increasingly accepted and expected. In this article we challenge the unquestioned acceptance of the concept of saturation and consider its plausibility and transferability across all qualitative approaches. By considering issues of transparency and epistemology we argue that adopting saturation as a generic quality marker is inappropriate. The aim of this article is to highlight the pertinent issues and encoura...

The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Data Analysis

Abstract: The wide range of approaches to data analysis in qualitative research can seem daunting even for experienced researchers. This handbook is the first to provide a state-of-the art overview of the whole field of QDA; from general analytic strategies used in qualitative research, to approaches specific to particular types of qualitative data, including talk, text, sounds, images and virtual data. The handbook includes chapters on traditional analytic strategies such as grounded theory, content analysis, hermeneutics, phenomenology and narrative analysis, as well as coverage of newer trends like mixed methods, reanalysis and meta-analysis. Practical aspects such as sampling, transcription, working collaboratively, writing and implementation are given close attention, as are theory and theorization, reflexivity, and ethics. Written by a team of experts in qualitative research from around the world, this handbook is an essential compendium for all qualitative researchers and students across the social sciences.

Grounded Theory Methodology

Abstract: The overarching research goal for which grounded theory methodology (GTM) is used is to understand the basic social processes that underlie a phenomenon in socially or experientially relevant domains of human life. It is also a popular methodology adopted by qualitative researchers in social science disciplines and medical and health sciences. In psychology too, its popularity and use are gaining momentum as literature documenting detailed procedures about conducting grounded theory research is readily available. Keywords: ethnography; methodology; research

Using grounded theory as a method for rigorously reviewing literature

Abstract: This paper offers guidance to conducting a rigorous literature review. We present this in the form of a five-stage process in which we use Grounded Theory as a method. We first probe the guidelines explicated by Webster and Watson, and then we show the added value of Grounded Theory for rigorously analyzing a carefully chosen set of studies; it assures solidly legitimized, in-depth analyses of empirical facts and related insights. This includes, the emergence of new themes, issues and opportunities; interrelationships and dependencies in or beyond a particular area; as well as inconsistencies. If carried out meticulously, reviewing a well-carved out piece of literature by following this guide is likely to lead to more integrated and fruitful theory emergence, something that would enrich many fields in the social sciences

Crowdfunding: Motivations and deterrents for participation

Abstract: Crowdfunding is changing how, why, and which ideas are brought into existence. With the increasing number of crowdfunded projects, it is important to understand what drives people to either create or fund these projects. To shed light on this new social phenomenon, we present a grounded theory of motivation informed by the first cross-platform qualitative study of the crowdfunding community. By performing 83 semistructured interviews, we uncover creator motivations, which include the desire to raise funds, expand awareness of work, connect with others, gain approval, maintain control, and learn; and supporter motivations, which include the desire to collect rewards, help others, support causes, and be part of a community. We also explore deterrents to crowdfunding participation, including, among creators, fear of failure, and, for supporters, lack of trust. Based on these findings, we provide three emergent design principles to inform the design of effective crowdfunding platforms and support tools.

Life With and Without Coding: Two Methods for Early-Stage Data Analysis in Qualitative Research Aiming at Causal Explanations

Abstract: Qualitative research aimed at "mechanismic" explanations poses specific challenges to qualitative data analysis because it must integrate existing theory with patterns identified in the data. We explore the utilization of two methods—coding and qualitative content analysis—for the first steps in the data analysis process, namely "cleaning" and organizing qualitative data. Both methods produce an information base that is structured by categories and can be used in the subsequent search for patterns in the data and integration of these patterns into a systematic, theoretically embedded explanation. Used as a stand-alone method outside the grounded theory approach, coding leads to an indexed text, i.e. both the original text and the index (the system of codes describing the content of text segments) are subjected to further analysis. Qualitative content analysis extracts the relevant information, i.e. separates it from the original text, and processes only this information. We suggest that qualitative content analysis has advantages compared to coding whenever the research question is embedded in prior theory and can be answered without processing knowledge about the form of statements and their position in the text, which usually is the case in the search for "mechanismic" explanations. Coding outperforms qualitative content analysis in research that needs this information in later stages of the analysis, e.g. the exploration of meaning or the study of the construction of narratives.

Qualitative Research Designs: A Conceptual Framework

Abstract: The design of qualitative research is a general way of thinking about conducting qualitative research. It describes, either explicitly or implicitly, the purpose of the qualitative research, the role of the researcher(s), the stages of research, and the method of data analysis. A qualitative research design is probably the most flexible of the various experimental techniques, encompassing a variety of accepted methods and structures. Here, four of the major qualitative research designs namely phenomenology, ethnography, grounded theory and case study are introduced. Descriptions of all four qualitative research designs are given separately. The design of qualitative research provides for the learner to understand the difference between phenomenology and grounded theory or between ethnography and case study and also provides the appropriate knowledge about itself.

What Makes a Great MOOC? An Interdisciplinary Analysis of Student Retention in Online Courses

Abstract: Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have experienced rapid expansion and gained significant popularity among students and educators. Although the broad acceptance of MOOCs, there is still a long way to go in terms of satisfaction of students’ needs, as witnessed in the extremely high drop-out rates. Working toward improving MOOCs, we employ the Grounded Theory Method (GTM) in a quantitative study and explore this new phenomenon. In particular, we present a novel analysis using a real-world data set with user-generated online reviews, where we both identify the student, course, platform, and university characteristics that affect student retention and estimate their relative effect. In the conducted analysis, we integrate econometric, text mining, opinion mining, and machine learning techniques, building both explanatory and predictive models, toward a more complete analysis. This study also provides actionable insights for MOOCs and education, in general, and contributes to the related literature discovering new findings.

The Use of Grounded Theory Technique as a Practical Tool for Qualitative Data Collection and Analysis

Abstract: 1. IntroductionOne of the main problems of conducting interpretive qualitative research is to decide an appropriate starting point for the research, and the basic framework within which the data will be collected and analysed. Qualitative studies tend to produce large amounts of data that are not readily amenable to mechanical manipulation, analysis and data reduction (Yin, 1984). It not only generates large amount of data, but it generates data in a non standard format which makes analysis problematic (Turner, 1983). Qualitative analysis provides an opportunity for the researcher to gain information and gather insights that may be overlooked with traditional data analysis techniques. The analysis of the case study is done in pursuant to guidance provided by many scholars in this field, (such as Glaser, 1978; Glaser and Strauss, 1967; Lofland and Lofland, 1984; and Taylor and Bogdan, 1984).The process of data analysis in qualitative research involves working with data, organising it, breaking it down, synthesising it, searching for patterns, discovering what is important and what is to be learned, and deciding what you will tell others (Bogdan and Biklen, 1982). Spradley (1979) refers to analysis as a systematic examination of something to determine its parts, the relationship among parts, and their relationship to the whole. While Miles and Huberman (1984) describe data analysis as consisting of three concurrent activities - data reduction refers to the process of selecting, simplifying, abstracting and transforming the new case data. They argue that data collection and data analysis should overlap to allow for flexibility in data collection procedures so that the researcher remains open to new ideas or patterns which may emerge.There are many ways of analysing qualitative data and a number of approaches were considered such as hermeneutics, content analysis and semiotics (Myers, 1997). These approaches come from diverse fields and all offer the possibility of different insights on the data. These approaches were evaluated from the perspective of whether the approach draws on all features of case study and whether the philosophy of the approach imposes any pre-existing theories. Eisenhardt (1989) suggests that theory building research must begin as close as possible to the ideal of no theory under consideration and no hypotheses to test since preordained theoretical perspectives may bias and limit the findings.The objective of the case study research was the development of a conceptual model that explains the adoption of Internet in small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the objective of the study fits well with the philosophical nature of grounded theory. Accordingly, proponents of the grounded theory advocate that an approach which concerns itself with the meanings, definitions, and interpretations which are made by the subjects of the study has greater potential for depicting their world and priorities more accurately than methods which begin by preconceiving the world and its meaning (De Burca and McLoughlin, 1996). The researcher did not come to the field with a well-defined set of constructs and instruments with which to measure the social reality; rather the researcher derives the categories from the field by in-depth examination and exposure to the phenomenon.The selection of grounded theory (Glaser and Strauss, 1967; Glaser, 1978; Strauss, 1987; Strauss and Corbin, 1990, 1998) amongst a myriad of other qualitative methods is not arbitrary but rather because it has been a dominant paradigm for social research (Hughes and Jones, 2003) and its use is increasing in the IS field. This is evidenced by the growing literature that is either discursive on philosophy and application or detailed about method (Toraskar, 1991; Orlikowski, 1993; Baskerville and Pries-Heje, 1999; Trauth, 2000; Hughes and Howcroft, 2000; Urquhart, 2001). Hughes and Jones (2003) note that more researchers are taking up qualitative studies, it is therefore worth reflecting on lessons learned from the practical application of the method. …

Using grounded theory method in information systems: The researcher as blank slate and other myths

Abstract: The use of grounded theory method (GTM) as a research method in information systems (IS) has gradually increased over the years as qualitative research in general has become more prevalent. The method offers a systematic way to generate theory from data, but is rarely used to its full potential in IS as a number of myths and misunderstandings about GTM prevent researchers from getting the full potential out of the method. To address this problem, we advance the general level of knowledge of GTM. We clarify aspects of the method that are often misunderstood by novice users or casual observers and provide guidance to address common problems. Exemplars from the IS literature are used to illustrate the concepts and to promote the informed use of the methodology. By doing so, this paper will contribute to improving the use of the method and to the quality and dissemination of grounded theory research outcomes.

Philosophical Paradigms, Grounded Theory, and Perspectives on Emergence

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to present a plausible framework to initiate discussion regarding the concept of emergence in grounded theory. Using ontological and epistemological positions to develop three research paradigms, and applying these paradigms to various uptakes of grounded theory demonstrates differences in the definition of emergence. Discovery emergence is presented as a unidirectional relationship between the constituent parts (data) and the emergent property (theory) observed by an external postpositivist grounded theorist. Mechanistic emergence is presented as having a bidirectional relationship between the constituent part (data) and the emergent property (theory) observed by an external constructionist grounded theorist. Finally, reflective emergence is presented as having a bidirectional relationship between the constituent parts (data) and the emergent property (theory) interpreted by an interpretivist grounded theorist.

Optimizing patient involvement in quality improvement.

Abstract: Introduction Patient and public involvement in healthcare planning, service development and health-related research has received significant attention. However, evidence about the role of patient involvement in quality improvement work is more limited. We aimed to characterize patient involvement in three improvement projects and to identify strengths and weaknesses of contrasting approaches. Methods Three case study quality improvement projects were purposively sampled from a broader programme. We used an ethnographic approach involving 126 in-depth interviews, 12 weeks of non-participant observations and documentary analysis. Data analysis was based on the constant comparative method. Results The three projects differed in the ways they involved patients in their quality improvement work, including their rationales for including patients. We characterized three very different models of patient involvement, which were each influenced by project context. Patients played distinctive roles across the three projects, acting in some cases as intermediaries between the wider patient community and clinicians, and sometimes undertaking persuasive work to convince clinicians of the need for change. We identified specific strategies that can be used to help ensure that patient involvement works most effectively and that the enthusiasm of patients to make a difference is not dissipated.

WIKIPEDIA. Between lay participation and elite knowledge representation

Abstract: The decentralized participatory architecture of the Internet challenges traditional knowledge authorities and hierarchies. Questions arise about whether lay inclusion helps to ‘democratize’ knowledge formation or if existing hierarchies are re-enacted online. This article focuses on Wikipedia, a much-celebrated example which gives an in-depth picture of the process of knowledge production in an open environment. Drawing on insights from the sociology of knowledge, Wikipedia's talk pages are conceptualized as an arena where reality is socially constructed. Using grounded theory, this article examines the entry for the September 11 attacks and its related talk pages in the German Wikipedia. Numerous alternative interpretations (labeled as ‘conspiracy theories’) that fundamentally contradict the account of established knowledge authorities regarding this event have emerged. On the talk pages, these views collide, thereby serving as a useful case study to examine the role of experts and lay participants in th...

Grounded theory method in information systems research: its nature, diversity and opportunities

Abstract: This article introduces this special issue by exploring the nature and diversity of the Grounded Theory Method (GTM) and the opportunities associated with its use in Information Systems (IS) research. As guest editors for this special issue and as practicing grounded theorists, we feel that the nature of GTM is often misunderstood and its label abused in different ways. Therefore, in this editorial article, we attempt to clarify what we see as the essential characteristics of GTM. We also present some issues that are commonly discussed among grounded theorists, but which are less well known publicly. We argue that GTM can be a powerful tool for IS scholars interested in theory development, allowing researchers to conduct pioneering research with both flexibility and rigour. This argument is illustrated by the seven papers that we have selected for this special issue. These papers represent the wide variety of ways in which GTM can be used in our field. Further, they show how, through innovative uses of GTM, IS researchers can address some long-standing research challenges.

Understanding grounded theory.

Abstract: Grounded theory is a systematic research approach involving the discovery of theory through data collection and analysis. In particular, the focus is on uncovering patterns in social life that individuals might or might not be aware of. This article provides a practical overview of grounded theory to guide the research process in this area. The article is aimed at the nurse researcher who has some knowledge of grounded theory and/or is considering using this method of inquiry.

A novice researcher’s first walk through the maze of grounded theory

Abstract: Being new to grounded theory the onus to understand the methodology and the various versionscan be daunting.Learning and understanding the differences between grounded theories methodologies can be as much a learning of one's own research philosophy and this philosophy is often the deciding factor in methodology selection. Learning the different methodologies is a difficult journey as terminology often sounds similar to the novice researcher, but only by exploring the differences can the researcher rationalize their own choice. This paper offers the new researcher a view into the confusing world of grounded theory, where common terms are usedbut the secret lies in understanding the philosophy of the researcher and the topic of discovery. Glaser was correct, the answer is in the data, but you need to understand the philosophy of the method and if it matches your philosophy of research.

Challenges experienced by paid peer providers in mental health recovery: a qualitative study.

Abstract: Peer providers are increasingly employed in mental health services. We explored challenges experienced by 31 peer providers in diverse settings and roles using in-depth interviews, as part of a larger study focusing on their recovery (Moran et al. in Qual Health Res, 2012). A grounded theory approach revealed three challenge domains: work environment, occupational path, and personal mental health. Challenges in the work environment differed between conventional mental health settings and consumer-run agencies. Occupational domain challenges included lack of clear job descriptions, lack of skills for using one’s life story and lived experience, lack of helping skills, and negative aspects of carrying a peer provider label. Personal mental health challenges included overwork and symptom recurrence. Implications for all domains are discussed, with focus on training and skill development.

Trust in nurse–patient relationships: A literature review

Abstract: The aim of this study was to report the results of a literature review of empirical studies on trust within the nurse-patient relationship. A search of electronic databases yielded 34 articles published between 1980 and 2011. Twenty-two studies used a qualitative design, and 12 studies used quantitative research methods. The context of most quantitative studies was nurse caring behaviours, whereas most qualitative studies focused on trust in the nurse-patient relationship. Most of the quantitative studies used a descriptive design, while qualitative methods included the phenomenological approach, grounded theory, ethnography and interpretive interactionism. Data collection was mainly by questionnaires or interviews. Evidence from this review suggests that the development of trust is a relational phenomenon, and a process, during which trust could be broken and re-established. Nurses' professional competencies and interpersonal caring attributes were important in developing trust; however, various factors may hinder the trusting relationship.

Semi-structured qualitative studies

Abstract: HCI addresses problems of interaction design: delivering novel designs, evaluating existing designs, and understanding user needs for future designs. Qualitative methods have an essential role to play in this enterprise, particularly in understanding user needs and behaviours and evaluating situated use of technology. There are, however, a huge number of qualitative methods, often minor variants of each other, and it can seem difficult to choose (or design) an appropriate method for a particular study. The focus of this chapter is on semi-structured qualitative studies, which occupy a space between ethnography and surveys, typically involving observations, interviews and similar methods for data gathering, and methods for analysis based on systematic coding of data. This chapter is pragmatic, focusing on principles for designing, conducting and reporting on a qualitative study and conversely, as a reader, assessing a study. The starting premise is that all studies have a purpose, and that methods need to address the purpose, taking into account practical considerations. The chapter closes with a checklist of questions to consider when designing and reporting studies.

Learning to Teach Mathematics for Social Justice: Negotiating Social Justice and Mathematical Goals

Abstract: This article describes teachers’ collective work aimed at learning to teach mathematics for social justice. A situated, sociocultural perspective of learning guides this examination of teachers’ negotiation of mathematical goals and social justice goals as they developed, implemented, and revised lessons for social justice. Teacher interviews, discussions, lessons, and written reflections were analyzed using grounded theory methodology, and teachers’ conversations were examined concerning the relationship between mathematical goals and social justice goals. Analysis revealed that early tensions arose around balancing these goals, that teachers focused more attention on the social justice component, and that the instantiation of these goals in practice proved difficult. Variables that afford or constrain teachers’ roles as social justice educators are discussed, and implications for teacher professional development are suggested.

Social entrepreneurship theory and sustainable social impact

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this research is to introduce a theory for social entrepreneurship based on integrating the entrepreneurship literature with a global empirical research carried out on social entrepreneurs using grounded theory. Theoretical contributions and insights from the social entrepreneurship literature are integrated into the research.Design/methodology/approach – This research is an exploratory inductive qualitative research based on the grounded theory methodology developed by Glaser and Strauss, and procedures developed by Strauss and Corbin with a constructivist stance.Findings – The behavioral theory of social entrepreneurship studies the contextual factors that lead to social venture creation, the underlying organization dynamics and structures, and how these typologies measure social impact, mobilize resources, and bring about sustainable social change.Research limitations/implications – The result of the research is a behavioral theory for social entrepreneurship, which introduces ...

Collaborative analysis of qualitative data

Abstract: The wide range of approaches to data analysis in qualitative research can seem daunting even for experienced researchers. This handbook is the first to provide a state-of-the art overview of the whole field of QDA; from general analytic strategies used in qualitative research, to approaches specific to particular types of qualitative data, including talk, text, sounds, images and virtual data. The handbook includes chapters on traditional analytic strategies such as grounded theory, content analysis, hermeneutics, phenomenology and narrative analysis, as well as coverage of newer trends like mixed methods, reanalysis and meta-analysis. Practical aspects such as sampling, transcription, working collaboratively, writing and implementation are given close attention, as are theory and theorization, reflexivity, and ethics. Written by a team of experts in qualitative research from around the world, this handbook is an essential compendium for all qualitative researchers and students across the social sciences.

Characterizing Architecturally Significant Requirements

Abstract: This article presents a framework for characterizing architecturally significant requirements (ASRs) on the basis of an empirical study using grounded theory. The study involved interviews with 90 practitioners with an accumulated 1,448 years of software development experiences in more than 500 organizations of various sizes and domains. These findings could provide researchers with a framework for discussing and conducting further research on ASRs and can inform researchers' development of technologies for dealing with ASRs. The findings also enrich understanding of requirements and architecture interactions, allowing the twin peaks to move from aspiration to reality.

Doctor–patient communication in Southeast Asia: a different culture?

Abstract: Studies of doctor–patient communication generally advocate a partnership communication style. However, in Southeast Asian settings, we often see a more one-way style with little input from the patient. We investigated factors underlying the use of a one-way consultation style by doctors in a Southeast Asian setting. We conducted a qualitative study based on principles of grounded theory. Twenty residents and specialists and 20 patients of a low or high educational level were interviewed in internal medicine outpatient clinics of an Indonesian teaching hospital and two affiliated hospitals. During 26 weeks we engaged in an iterative interview and coding process to identify emergent factors. Patients were generally dissatisfied with doctors’ communication style. The doctors indicated that they did not deliberately use a one-way style. Communication style appeared to be associated with characteristics of Southeast Asian culture, the health care setting and medical education. Doctor–patient communication appeared to be affected by cultural characteristics which fell into two broad categories representing key features of Southeast Asian culture, “social distance” and “closeness of relationships”, and to characteristics categorized as “specific clinical context”. Consideration of these characteristics could be helpful in promoting the use of a partnership communication style.

Introducing peer worker roles into UK mental health service teams: a qualitative analysis of the organisational benefits and challenges

Abstract: The provision of peer support as a component of mental health care, including the employment of Peer Workers (consumer-providers) by mental health service organisations, is increasingly common internationally. Peer support is strongly advocated as a strategy in a number of UK health and social care policies. Approaches to employing Peer Workers are proliferating. There is evidence to suggest that Peer Worker-based interventions reduce psychiatric inpatient admission and increase service user (consumer) empowerment. In this paper we seek to address a gap in the empirical literature in understanding the organisational challenges and benefits of introducing Peer Worker roles into mental health service teams. We report the secondary analysis of qualitative interview data from service users, Peer Workers, non-peer staff and managers of three innovative interventions in a study about mental health self-care. Relevant data was extracted from interviews with 41 participants and subjected to analysis using Grounded Theory techniques. Organisational research literature on role adoption framed the analysis. Peer Workers were highly valued by mental health teams and service users. Non-peer team members and managers worked hard to introduce Peer Workers into teams. Our cases were projects in development and there was learning from the evolutionary process: in the absence of formal recruitment processes for Peer Workers, differences in expectations of the Peer Worker role can emerge at the selection stage; flexible working arrangements for Peer Workers can have the unintended effect of perpetuating hierarchies within teams; the maintenance of protective practice boundaries through supervision and training can militate against the emergence of a distinctive body of peer practice; lack of consensus around what constitutes peer practice can result in feelings for Peer Workers of inequality, disempowerment, uncertainty about identity and of being under-supported. This research is indicative of potential benefits for mental health service teams of introducing Peer Worker roles. Analysis also suggests that if the emergence of a distinctive body of peer practice is not adequately considered and supported, as integral to the development of new Peer Worker roles, there is a risk that the potential impact of any emerging role will be constrained and diluted.

Many roads lead to sustainability: a process‐oriented analysis of change in higher education

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to comparatively analyse activities to integrate sustainability in teaching, research and operational practice in different higher education institutions, which differ both in the degree of how far implementation goes and in regards to the most active stakeholders Against that background, the paper explores, in a process‐oriented focus, which drivers and barriers are experienced as most important and how they relate to each otherDesign/methodology/approach – A comparative multi‐case study has been conducted, with two main steps to structure the research process: first, desktop research was used to select appropriate cases in a theoretical sampling Second, data from interviews with relevant stakeholders in each case were analysed according to the constant comparison methodFindings – Across all cases, three distinctive patterns of implementation processes emerged, each of them with a unique set of influencing factors For each pattern, drivers and barriers, as well