Qualitative Research in the Health Sciences

There is a growing interest in, and acceptance of, qualitative research approaches in the health science disciplines, both as standalone methodologies and integrated with quantitative designs in mixed methods approaches. This comprehensive text provides deeper knowledge and application of a wide range of methodologies, methods and processes, enabling readers to develop their qualitative research skills.

Divided into two parts focusing first on methodologies and then on methods and processes, the text also includes revision of essential aspects of quantitative research as they apply to mixed methods research and a discussion of the uptake of qualitative research in the health sciences.

The methodologies covered include: Grounded Theory; Historical Research; Ethnography; Phenomenology; Narrative Inquiry; Case Study Research; Critical Ethnography; Action Research and Mixed Methods.

The methods and processes covered include: Interviewing and Analysis; Group Work and Analysis; Fieldwork and Analysis; Narrative Analysis; Discourse Analysis.

Using accessible language to help extend readers’ practical research skills, this is a thorough and reliable text to guide advanced students and researchers from all health-related disciplines – including nursing, midwifery, public health and physiotherapy – to the best use of qualitative research.

Bev Taylor is Professor of Nursing in the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Australia.

Karen Francis is Professor and Head of the School of Nursing, Midwifery & Indigenous Health, Charles Sturt University, Australia.