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Table 1 Take-away-points

From: How to use and assess qualitative research methods

Types of research problems

Data collection

Data analysis

• Assessing complex multi-component interventions or systems (of change)

• What works for whom when, how and why?

• Focussing on intervention improvement

• Document study

• Observations (participant or non-participant)

• Interviews (especially semi-structured)

• Focus groups

• Transcription of audio-recordings and field notes into transcripts and protocols

• Coding of protocols

• Using qualitative data management software

Mixed and multi-method

How to assess

How not to assess

• Combinations of quantitative and/or qualitative methods, e.g.:

convergent parallel: quali and quanti in parallel

explanatory sequential: quanti followed by quali

exploratory sequential: quali followed by quanti

• Checklists

• Reflexivity

• Sampling strategies

• Piloting

• Co-coding

• Member checking

• Stakeholder involvement

• Protocol adherence

• Sample size

• Randomization

• Interrater reliability, variability and other “objectivity checks”

• Not being quantitative research