In contrast to quantitative research study participants who are ...

[Medesa]

In contrast to quantitative research study participants who are selected to be as representative of a population as possible, qualitative research participants are selected because they
 
  a. Are philosophically attuned to the use of narratives and narrative analysis as the best means to convey their experience to the researcher and to others
  b. Meet the requirements for involvement in the study that the researcher specified at the outset of the study's implementation
  c. Also are representative of the population
  d. Have experienced the phenomenon of interest

Question 2

Which of the following research methods test for causality? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Experimental research
  b. Causational modeling
  c. Case study research
  d. Quasi-experimental research
  e. Cross-sectional research

[katara]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
The criterion for selecting participants for a qualitative study is that they have experienced the phenomenon of interest. The participants' view of the value of narrative research and analysis is not the reason that study participants in a qualitative study are selected. In qualitative methodology, the method of sampling may differ as the study progresses, since the researcher may be led to interview a broader range of subjects than originally intended by what early participants relate. Although representativeness of the sample, especially through random sampling, is important to external validity (that is, the extent to which the sample's findings can be applied to the population) for quantitative methods, it is not a characteristic of qualitative research.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, D
Quasi-experimental and experimental designs examine causality. The power of the design to accomplish this purpose depends on the degree to which the actual effects of the experimental treatment (the independent variable) can be detected by measuring the dependent or outcome variable. Correlational studies examine relationships between variables, but do not provide information on causality. The case study design involves an intensive exploration of a single unit of study, such as a person, family, group, community, or institution, or a small number of subjects who are examined intensively. Cross-sectional designs are not causational.