Introduction

This book is written for college students and focuses on qualitative research. Reading about a problem may be good (a literature review), but learning how to investigate the problem yourself is better. Research is a systematic process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information in order to better understand the subject of study. All research involves theory, data collection, and attempts to solve a problem by answering a question.

Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research

A quantitative research study indicates how variables are numerically related and may be used to determine the method of operandi and to make predictions based on confidence levels; however, a qualitative study indicates why variables are related and may be used to determine motives.

Managing Variables

In either case, by manipulating the independent variables, the dependent variables may be effectively managed. This book presents information on qualitative research and provides a comprehensive qualitative research study.