The value of conducting Qualitative Research

Walsh (2003) provides a coherent account on the value of conducting Qualitative Research. I point out some of the main views proposed in this article:

1. Qualitative research is an interpretative method of collecting and analyzing data to explore and explain a phenomenon [this appears to endorse a subjective stance in research philosophy]
2. A researcher's goal is to uncover the not-so-obvious findings that advance our understanding of a phenomenon. [this appears to emphasize the exploratory strength of qualitative research]
3. Qualitative research helps researchers to create exciting theories that have practical value to managers. [this appears to support point 2 above while stressing that the theories so formulated have practical value]
4. Scholarly knowledge is developed through alternative phases of "theory building" and "theory testing" [this appears to emphasize inductive and deductive reasonings as complementary in nature]
5. Qualitative research offer data that are potentially rich and powerful. [this appears to emphasize the value of qualitative data in contrast to that of quantitative data]

These viewpoints, among others, are intended to explain the relevance and value of conducting qualitative research. Note that the comments in brackets [] are my own interpretations of Walsh's ideas. Try to also study exhibit 1 of Walsh (2003) on the various qualitative-data collection methods.

I only highlight a few ideas in Walsh (2003) to facilitate class discussion on Qualitative Research. You need to study Walsh' article to learn the detailed reasoning of her ideas on this topic.

See also handwritten note as follows:

Reference
Walsh, K. (2003) "Qualitative Researc: Advancing the Science and Practice of Hospitality" Cornell Hotel and Restaurant Administrative Quarterly, April, pp. 66-74.