Qualitative Longitudinal Research: Research Methods

Qualitative longitudinal research (QLR) is a research method that explores and analyzes changes over time in social phenomena. It draws from various fields, such as social anthropology, sociology, and biographical research, and has gained popularity in recent years due to its innovative approach to understanding complex processes. This practical volume provides an introduction to QLR, covering its theoretical foundations, methodological approaches, and practical applications, with examples from the research field to illustrate key concepts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 24 December 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Qualitative longitudinal (QL) research is a dynamic and innovative approach to social science inquiry that involves studying individuals or groups over an extended period of time. Rooted in a rich tradition of qualitative temporal research, including social anthropology, sociological re-studies, and biographical research, QL research offers a unique perspective on the complexities of human behavior and social processes. Over the past two decades, there has been a growing body of scholarship that has documented and explored the theoretical underpinnings of QL research, leading to its widespread adoption across various disciplines and international contexts.

This practical volume is designed to serve as a comprehensive guide for students and researchers who wish to employ QL research in their own projects. The book is organized in a logical progression, beginning with conceptual and methodological foundations, moving to research practice and ethics, and culminating in the generation and analysis of data. Each chapter provides practical examples drawn from the research field to illustrate key themes and the vast potential for new applications of QL methodology.

One of the key strengths of QL research is its ability to capture the rich and nuanced details of individual experiences and relationships over time. By immersing themselves in the lives of their participants and observing their interactions and behaviors over an extended period, researchers can gain a deep understanding of the complexities of human behavior and the social contexts in which it occurs. QL research also emphasizes the importance of reflexivity and ethical considerations in the research process, ensuring that participants are treated with respect and that their data is collected and analyzed in a manner that is sensitive to their experiences and perspectives.

In conclusion, qualitative longitudinal research is a powerful and versatile approach to social science inquiry that offers a unique perspective on the complexities of human behavior and social processes. This practical volume provides a comprehensive guide for students and researchers who wish to employ QL research in their own projects, covering conceptual and methodological foundations, research practice and ethics, and data generation and analysis. With its emphasis on reflexivity, ethical considerations, and the capture of rich and nuanced data, QL research is poised to continue to make significant contributions to our understanding of the world around us.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 146 x 222 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350188945