COURSE

Qualitative Research Methods

Understand experience, meaning, process and context.

Learn to choose qualitative approaches, collect rich data and develop transparent interpretations from interviews, observations and digital communities.

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Course summaryIntermediate level7 modules6 hours estimated learningSelf-paced deliveryPractical exercises includedBest for: Researchers studying experiences, meanings, cultures and social processes

7 modulesStructured learning sequence

IntermediateRecommended level

6 hoursLearn at your own pace

PracticalApply the learning directly

Certificate eligibleOn successful completion where enabled

ABOUT

About this course

Learn to choose qualitative approaches, collect rich data and develop transparent interpretations from interviews, observations and digital communities.

The course is structured around practical research decisions rather than memorised definitions. Each module connects concepts to real research tasks, examples and tools.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Learning outcomes

Distinguish major qualitative traditions.
Develop appropriate interview and focus-group strategies.
Use purposeful sampling thoughtfully.
Create a transparent coding and thematic analysis trail.
Understand credibility, reflexivity and researcher positioning.
Recognise when digital ethnography or netnography is appropriate.

COURSE CONTENT

7-module curriculum

Module 1

Qualitative Logic

Meaning, context, experience and process.

4 lessons · 30 min

Module 2

Choosing an Approach

Phenomenology, case study, ethnography, grounded theory and narrative inquiry.

6 lessons · 50 min

Module 3

Sampling & Recruitment

Purposeful strategies, access and sufficiency.

5 lessons · 40 min

Module 4

Interviews & Focus Groups

Question design, probing and facilitation.

6 lessons · 50 min

Module 5

Digital Qualitative Research

Online communities, netnography and digital ethics.

5 lessons · 40 min

Module 6

Coding & Themes

Move from raw data to codes, categories, themes and interpretation.

6 lessons · 50 min

Module 7

Quality & Reporting

Reflexivity, credibility, transparency, SRQR and COREQ.

5 lessons · 40 min

SKILLS YOU'LL GAIN

Qualitative DesignInterviewingFocus GroupsPurposeful SamplingCodingThematic AnalysisReflexivityNetnography

TOOLS & RESOURCES

KoboToolboxWord/DocsExcelNVivo-compatible workflowsTaguette-compatible workflows

DETAILS TO KNOW

DeliverySelf-paced online learning

LanguageEnglish

AudienceResearchers studying experiences, meanings, cultures and social processes

PracticeWorked examples and applied tasks

SupportCan be combined with F1RMA research consulting

CompletionCertificate eligibility where enabled

READY TO BEGIN?

Start Qualitative Research Methods.

Enrol for the structured course, or book guidance if you want help applying the learning to your own research.

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Research HubUse the public research knowledge base →Research ResourcesOpen calculators, matrices and planning tools →Research SupportWork with a F1RMA research consultant →