Order Description
Statistical analysis in quantitative research yields about validity that can be calculated mathematically depending upon sample size relative to the population. Qualitative research does not lend itself to such mathematical determination of validity. Qualitative research is not intended to give “statistically significant” results; rather it is highly focused on providing descriptive and/or exploratory results. However, this does not relieve the qualitative researcher from designing studies that are rigorous and high in “trustworthiness,” often the word used to describe validity in a qualitative study.

There is no agreed upon set of criteria for ensuring a “valid” qualitative study, but there are a number of models of quality criteria. After reading assigned articles by Freeman, deMarrais, Preissle, Roulston, and St. Pierre, (2007) and Morrow (2005), as well as Chapter 2 from Merriam (2002), discuss what criteria you feel are most useful for the study you are designing in this course, and why. You may use any of your other sources to develop your answer. The paper should be at least 300 words.