Characteristics of a “Good” Qualitative Research

There are standards for assessing the quality of qualitative studies (Creswell, 1998; Howe & Eisenhardt, 1990; Lincoln, 1995; Marshall & Rossman, 1995). The following short list of characteristics of a “good” qualitative research is presented by Creswell (1998):

· It entails Rigorous data collection: The researcher collects multiple forms of data, summarizes them adequately and spends adequate time in the field.

· The study is framed within the assumptions and characteristics of the qualitative approach to research.

· The researcher identifies, studies and employs one or more traditions of inquiry.

· The researcher starts with a single idea or problem that s/he seeks to understand, not a causal relationship of variables.

· The study involves detailed methods, a rigorous approach to data collection, data analysis, and report writing.

· The writing is so persuasive that the reader experiences “being there.”

· Data is analyzed using multiple levels of abstraction. That is, the researcher’s work is presented in a way that moves from particulars to general levels of abstraction.

· The writing is clear, engaging, and full of unexpected ideas. The story and findings become believable and realistic, accurately reflecting all the complexities that exist in real situation.

To take a look at the different types/traditions of qualitative research as outlined by Creswell (1998), click here.