Researchers
Professor Cathy
Cassell, University of Sheffield
Dr Phil Johnson, Sheffield Hallam University
Dr Gillian Symon, Birkbeck College, London
Ms Anna Buehring, University of Sheffield
March 2003 - February 2005
Context
Much published management research is guided by quantitative techniques of data
collection and analysis, which articulate traditional beliefs about what constitutes good,
rigorous research. This has led to the relative neglect of alternative perspectives, which
may utilise qualitative techniques such as interviews or observation.
Aims and Objectives
To enhance good practice in the use of qualitative methods in management and
organizational research.
- to conduct a systematic investigation into current uses of qualitative
methods in management research
- identify any skills deficit in this area
- identify contributory factors for this deficit
- design and provide training activities to address the deficit
- develop an appropriate set of benchmarking assessment criteria
for the use of qualitative methods in management research
Methodological Aspects
An interpretative approach using qualitative research methods including:
- semi-structured interviews
- inductive generation of data categories and their interrelationships
(Johnson, 1998)
- use of the constant comparative method (Glaser & Strauss,
1967)
- Bloor’s (1978) modified framework of analytic induction to seek
to explain variations in perceptions
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Research Design
Literature review to identify:
- current uses of qualitative methods in management research
- different metatheoretical commitments displayed by qualitative
mangement researchers
- the evaluation criteria in use by qualitative management researchers
Primary data collection and analysis including:
- one-to-one interviews with members of different stakeholder
groups
- the development of themes and categories to address the research
objectives
Generate benchmarking criteria
Develop training and dissemination materials
Outputs
- research report
- workshops to present benchmarking criteria and encourage reflexive
practice and critical thinking in qualitative research
- resource pack
- web site
- journal articles
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