For qualitative research questions, try the SPIDER (Sample, Phenomenon of Interest, Design, Evaluation, Research type) method. This approach is ideal for descriptive or exploratory studies, allowing for a deeper understanding of the phenomenon under investigation.
As an example, let's explore a clinical study on diabetes treatment among South Asians.
| Sample |
Who are the specific subjects of the study? What is the scope of the sample (size, location, demographics)? |
South Asian adults aged 30-60 with diabetes |
| Phenomenon of Interest |
What specific experience, behavior, or issue are you investigating and why? |
Their lived experiences and perceptions of different diabetes treatments |
| Design |
What research methodology best fits your objectives? What data collection methods will you employ? (interviews, observations, study?) |
In-depth interviews or focus groups |
| Evaluation |
What outcomes are you trying to understand or measure? What criteria will you use to evaluate the success/quality of your findings? |
Thematic analysis of the qualitative data |
| Research type |
Will qualitative, quantitative, or a mixed approach be better for your specific research goals? What advantages or limitations will you need to consider? |
Qualitative study |