In this era of rapid change, scientific research is making its way into various fields with its increasing influence, and qualitative research is one of them. The purpose of this report is to provide a comprehensive introduction to the definition, role and application of qualitative research, so that science and technology enthusiasts can understand and master this type of research in a comprehensive manner. At the same time, we stress the importance of qualitative research and call on researchers to treat each project with scientific rigour to enhance the breadth and depth of academic research.
I. Basic Principles and Characteristics of Qualitative Research
1.1 Definition: Qualitative research, a scientific method of collecting information by using informal means such as in-depth interviews, on-site observations, and textual interpretations, with the theme of exploring their behaviours, opinions and feelings.
1.2 Characteristics: This type of research focuses on understanding and explaining the diversity and complexity of human behaviours and the roles that people play in relation to their social, cultural and historical contexts. In addition, qualitative research also emphasises the discovery of participants’ inner worlds and patterns of action.
Theoretical Support and Practical Capabilities of Qualitative Research
2.1 Theoretical sources: Ecology, phenomenology and human psychology are the main theoretical pillars of qualitative research, which help researchers to reveal the logical relationships behind social phenomena and human behaviour.
2.2 Research Strategies and Issues: Qualitative research can be divided into three major research strategies: field research, textual analysis and in-depth interviews. Each of these strategies has its own scope of application and necessity, and at the same time, the various practical problems that need to be faced in the research process and the corresponding solutions are equally important.
Research Methods of Qualitative Research
3.1 On-site observation: This kind of research method is used to observe the occurrence and evolution of behaviours or phenomena in the natural state, which helps researchers to obtain more real and complete data information.
3.2 Text Interpretation: Through in-depth analyses of various materials (including books, documents, web pages, videos, etc.), to visualise people’s thinking habits and emotional responses.
3.3 In-depth Interviews: In the form of private conversations, questions are asked to the interviewees to explore the deeper thoughts and emotions within the interviewees.
Ethical Considerations for Qualitative Research
4.1 Respect for personal privacy is the first principle that qualitative research must follow, and the data must be kept strictly confidential to prevent leakage of the data to cause distress to the participants.
4.2 For the protection of the rights and interests of the research participants, compensation mechanisms, insurance consultants and other specific issues, adequate preparation and planning should be done in advance.
Conclusion
In view of the above reasons, it has become crucial to conduct a systematic examination of qualitative research and explore its conceptual principles, theoretical foundations, research strategies, ethics and morals. The content of this technical document is highly practical and will hopefully be of benefit to readers who are interested in the dynamics of research and practicing research methods. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all the experts and scholars who have devoted themselves to scientific research and contributed to the promotion of academic development.
