A Junior Scholar’s Guide to Navigating the Trials & Triumphs of Qualitative Research

Abstract

This symposium seeks to bring together a panel of junior (pre-tenure) faculty members to discuss the trials and triumphs of qualitative research. The panel discussion will focus on the personal, qualitative journeys that the panelists have embarked upon, uncovering personal processes for engaging in and managing qualitative research, the various challenges that have arisen in this process and individual approaches to dealing with these challenges, as well as the benefits and rewards of engaging in such research. The primary goals of this panel symposium are to: 1) provide a platform for sharing personal struggles and valuable insights related to qualitative research; 2) provide an opportunity for other junior scholars – at the doctoral, post-doctorate, and Assistant Professor stages – to seek advice and ask questions that are not typically answered in a classroom setting, and; 3) create a community of practice for junior scholars beyond the AOM Annual Meeting. By bringing together a group of junior scholars with different research interests and backgrounds, but who have spent the majority of their academic careers engaging in qualitative research, this panel is uniquely positioned to provide a diverse set of perspectives, tips, and tricks to other scholars in the early stages of their qualitative careers.