Dalla Lana School of Public Health

Theory and Method of Qualitative Health Research

Course Description

This course introduces a range of qualitative research methods and theoretical perspectives with emphasis on the role that theory plays across the different stages of the research process. Learners will examine the underlying theoretical assumptions of qualitative research methods and the implications that these assumptions have for framing a research problem, data generation, data analysis, and dissemination strategies, including traditional and arts-based approaches. The course provides opportunities to attain practical, hands-on experience with developing research questions, data generation, and data analysis. It was designed in 2009 by Dr. Pia Kontos (Dalla Lana School of Public Health) and Dr. Barbara Gibson (Rehabilitation Sciences Institute).

Course Objectives

This course aims to provide learners with an introduction to the relationship between theory and method in qualitative inquiry. Learners will be expected to engage in critical reflection and debate of the ideas presented. At the completion of the course learners will:

• • Appreciate the scope and complexity of qualitative inquiry
  • Understand the role of theory across the research process
  • Be familiar with different paradigms and theoretical perspectives in qualitative research
  • Understand how to choose different data generation techniques and acquire basic skills in their use
  • Understand the notion and practice of reflexivity and its role in the research process
  • Understand the various ways that rigour and quality are enhanced in qualitative research
  • Be familiar with the basics of qualitative analysis
  • Identify ethical issues related to the use of qualitative methods
  • Have an introductory understanding of how to write up qualitative research

Course Format

This course utilizes a variety of approaches to teaching and learning about qualitative research:

• Group discussion of readings/audio-visual material
• Engagement with guest lecturers
• In-class exercises
• Learner-facilitated discussions
• Assignments

Methods of Assessment

Activity/Assignment	% Final Grade	Due Date
Class preparation, attendance, and participation (including leading one class discussion of the readings/audio-visual material assigned for that week)	10%	Sessions 2 – 12
Theoretical Application Paper (3-5 pages)	15%	Session 5
Data Generation, Description and Analysis Paper (5 pages)	35%	Session 9
Critical Annotated Bibliography (8 pages)	40%	One week after Session 12

Course Schedule

SESSION	TOPIC
	Introduction
2.	Paradigms & Traditions of Inquiry 1
3.	Paradigms & Traditions of Inquiry 2
4.	Research Design
5.	Interviews & Focus Groups
	READING WEEK NO CLASS
6.	Participant Observation
7.	Analysis & Interpretation 1
8.	Analysis & Interpretation 2
9.	Race, Power, & Health Research
10.	Arts-based Research Methods
11.	Ethical Issues in Qualitative Research
12.	Evaluating Qualitative Research

General Requirements