Abstract
Qualitative research involves scientific narratives and the analysis and interpretation of textual or numerical data (or both), mostly from conversations and discussions, to uncover meaningful patterns that describe a particular phenomenon. It is important to know other ways of framing and explaining these nuanced scientific narratives so that they can convey scientific knowledge. A qualitative hypothesis can play this role. The testing of hypotheses in qualitative research—which does not strictly mean the same thing as testing of hypotheses in quantitative research—always comes with challenges that provoke concerns. The questions that scholars, especially undergraduate and postgraduate students, have had to deal with are: Is it possible to “test” hypotheses using a qualitative method? If it is possible, how can this be done? This study deconstructs the concept, notion, and use of the hypotheses. It presents the “how-to” aspect of hypothesising (in qualitative research and inquiries) by using creative diagramming within post-positivist research, and also contributes to the literature on visual communication and qualitative research. The study is a guide to early career scholars (including undergraduate and post-graduate students) on how to formulate and “test” hypotheses qualitatively using visual or diagrammatical approaches.
Highlights
It is normal in research studies that directly involve investigations into societal concerns or social challenges to employ methodological approaches dominated by verbal narratives
While there are several advantages of visual communication in qualitative research, this study focuses on communicating the possibility of applying visual communication in the use of hypotheses in qualitative approaches
A qualitative research study would most likely employ the use of focus group discussions, case studies and in-depth interviews to find the answers to these questions; whereas in quantitative studies, there is a tendency to control observations or assume them to be stable
Summary
It is normal in research studies that directly involve investigations into societal concerns or social challenges to employ methodological approaches dominated by verbal narratives. Based on its objective of creating an understanding of qualitative research to provide guidelines on how qualitative researchers can use (include formulate, write and test) hypotheses, this study uses the evidence available in the literature to explore and present arguments in support of hypothesis-driven qualitative research. It presents the how-to aspect of hypothesising (in qualitative research and inquiries) by using creative diagramming within post-positivist research.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
