Offers reactions to critiques of a proposed research model: consensual qualitative research (CQR). Clarifies the meaning of consensus, explicates the representativeness of samples, analyzes the limitations and advantages of self-report data, and explores the nature of truth. Explores theory and verification in CQR and compares CQR to other…

This discussion of the role of research in improving systems for people with severe disabilities identifies flaws in current research, including problems of topics, methods, and analyses. Solutions proposed include: (1) linkage of quantitative and qualitative research; (2) democratization of research by including subjects as collaborators; and (3)…

In arts-based research, the mode of inquiry through an art form generates new insights that would not have been revealed through a traditional written format. Three sets of criteria for evaluating arts-based research are presented that privilege the written word. Additional criteria are offered for visual arts-based research. (Contains 22…

Proposes an alternative approach to community nursing assessment based on knowledge construction, including assessors' constructions of reality. Notes that qualitative methods such as triangulation allow for multiple viewpoints and evaluation of intangible aspects. (SK)

Draws on research in cultural anthropology and cultural psychology to place the current movement toward qualitative methods of inquiry in historical perspective. Asserts that a new methodology of achievement motivation--one that seeks to identify the cultural and personal meanings of educational performance through methods that clarify its…

Reports case study research is essentially concerned with providing credible representations of reality. Notes the possibility of using audio, photo, and video media. Argues for a key theoretical resource, a set of ideas developed around the idea of a case record. (BT)

Observations on qualitative manuscripts submitted for publication identified problem areas: organization and format, relationship of concept and method, methodological issues (study type, conceptual framework, sample, data collection/analysis, integrity, data management), discussion, and data presentation. Recommendations for improving quality of…

Discusses the role of semiotics in instructional systems research, and examines the implications that a semiotic perspective yields for the research training provided to students in instructional systems. Research perspectives and methodologies are described, including differences in qualitative and quantitative research, and data analysis is…

Illustrates the differences between participatory action research (PAR) and action science by exploring Xerox Corporation's participatory action research (PAR) efforts. Points out practical limitations and conceptual gaps of PAR. Emphasizes that the key to valuable research is to meet the standards of appropriate rigor without sacrificing…

Contrasts the epistemological assumptions and practices of qualitative methods with traditional quantitative methods, and promotes a conceptual cross-fertilization approach which will increase the credibility of both. Throughout, the article advocates both methodological diversity and rigor in the effort to understand spousal violence. (JPS)

Illustrations from a recent study of farm families who had lost a family member are used to illuminate some of the ethical challenges in qualitative bereavement research. Included in the exploration are ethics involved in interview recruitment, causing pain, informed consent, the boundaries of research and therapy, family dysfunction, and…

Author asserts that the community of science educators clearly has much to learn about qualitative research traditions and standards for the evaluation of qualitative research. Argues that the research question should direct the research approaches and data analysis procedures. (PR)

Author argues that the field of science education needs the significant contributions of a variety of researchers, engaged in many types of inquiry, all seeking to advance knowledge in the field. Presents examples of the following three approaches to inquiry: technical, practical, and emancipatory. (PR)

Introduces this journal issue which is a symposium on the theory, methods, and applications of qualitative research in the field of library and information science. Highlights include a definition of qualitative research, models of qualitative research, distinguishing features of research practice, comparisons with quantitative research, and…

This discussion of facilitated communication (FC) focuses on implications of conflicting views of retardation, science, and truth. Discussion supports FC and considers the normative view and the competence view of individuals with mental retardation, positivist and experiential approaches to research in mental retardation, and responses to…