Conceptualizing Qualitative Inquiry: Mindwork for Fieldwork in Education and the Social Sciences
by Thomas H. Schram
Category: Education

What to ask and how to ask it are the basic “problems” of qualitative research. This practical new book provides a means for first-time researchers to address these fundamental concerns and move their ideas through the process of conceptualizing and proposing a field-based qualitative study. Emphasizing the preliminary work—the “mindwork”—that should precede and inform any research project, the author poses the questions a first-time researcher would, and examines the frustrations and anxieties he or she might experience. He does this, first, through an ongoing case study of a real student researcher in her first project, and then by capturing “teachable” moments that focus on the how and why of researchers' efforts. The result? A framework within which readers can learn how to ask informed questions and uncover informative answers. KEY TOPICS Chapter topics cover engaging problem and purpose, establishing a perspective, constructing a conceptual context, forming research questions, deciding about traditions, getting into place for fieldwork, establishing an inquiry's integrity, and writing a proposal. For anyone who needs to conduct research.