NVivo and qualitative research
Systematic reviews have always been a cornerstone of Evidence Based Practice. "Is A better than B at treating C" was the initial formula, with randomized controlled trials providing the numbers to tally the evidence. Qualitative research was an awkward fit, sometimes granted a minor supporting role but most often excluded. As systematic reviews became more widely used and began to infiltrate the social sciences there began to emerge more questions that quantitative studies could not answer.
Qualitative researchers use interviews, focus groups, documents even multimedia files to gather their data. NVivo is designed to handle all of these data sources and is effective in all qualitative methodologies. See a good explanation of using NVivo for qualitative research, from the creators: QSR International.
Qualitative Research Methods by ISBN: 9780195518559Publication Date: 2013Qualitative Research Methods 4th Edition provides an accessible, practical guide to conducting and analysing qualitative research. This multidisciplinary text uses relevant and engaging examples to explain methodological issues, and shows how to use established, innovative and complex methods of research effectively. New to this edition: New chapter: Conducting Cross-cultural Research Qualitatively More criminology examples throughout the bookUpdated examples.
Systematic Synthesis of Qualitative Research by ISBN: 9780195387216Publication Date: 2012Qualitative synthesis within the family of systematic reviews meets an urgent need to use knowledge derived from qualitative studies to inform practice, research, and policy. Despite the contingent nature of evidence gleaned from synthesis of qualitative studies, systematic synthesis is an important technique and, used judiciously, can deepen understanding of the contextual dimensions that emerge from qualitative research.
Qualitative systematic review information
- Cochrane Qualitative & Implementation Methods GroupOur focus is on methods and processes involved in the synthesis of qualitative evidence and the integration of qualitative evidence with Cochrane intervention reviews of effects. Our purpose is to advise Cochrane and its network of people on policy and practice and qualitative evidence synthesis, develop and maintain methodological guidance, and provide training to those undertaking Cochrane reviews. From 2012 our mandate has been extended to include methods for undertaking systematic reviews of implementation.
- Campbell CollaborationBetter evidence for a better world
- EPPI-CentreThe EPPI-Centre is committed to informing policy and professional practice with sound evidence. As such, it is involved in two main areas of work:
1. Systematic reviews: This includes developing methods for systematic reviews and research syntheses, conducting reviews, supporting others to undertake reviews, and providing guidance and training in this area.
2. Research use: This includes studying the use/non-use of research evidence in personal, practice and political decision-making, supporting those who wish to find and use research to help solve problems, and providing guidance and training in this area.