Composing with Theory: Considerations for Teaching Novice Qualitative Researchers

Authors

Janie Copple, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USAFollow
Kathryn Roulston, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USAFollow

Abstract

Newcomers to qualitative research are frequently overwhelmed by the range of theories, methodologies, and concepts that qualitative researchers use. This article provides ideas for instructors working with novice qualitative researchers who are beginning to engage with theoretical frameworks used in qualitative research traditions. These practical strategies can assist students navigating challenges commonly encountered in the design and conduct of a first qualitative study. Strategies include developing understandings of disciplinary traditions within which a study will be situated, identifying a phenomenon of interest, defining disciplinary and theoretical terminology, reading deeply, articulating a theoretical perspective, and writing up findings. Through integrating these practices in their scholarly journeys, novice qualitative researchers can build the skills and knowledge needed to design high-quality and theoretically sound studies that contribute understanding of significant topics in their fields of interest.

Keywords

teaching qualitative research; theoretical perspectives; qualitative research design; disciplinary traditions

Author Bio(s)

Dr. Janie Copple is an assistant professor of qualitative research methods in the Department of Educational Policy Studies at Georgia State University where she teaches introductory and advanced courses in qualitative research methods. Her research focuses on topics related to qualitative pedagogy and methodology as well as topics related to motherhood and puberty education. Please direct correspondence to jcopple@gsu.edu

Dr. Kathryn Roulston is a professor of qualitative research methods in the Department of Lifelong Learning, Education, Administration and Policy at the University of Georgia where she teaches courses in qualitative research methods. Her research focuses on qualitative research methodology and pedagogy with a specific interest in qualitative interviewing. Please direct correspondence to roulston@uga.edu

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank the reviewers for their time, careful reading and insightful feedback that have been instrumental in strengthening the quality of this manuscript.

Publication Date

1-7-2025

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.

DOI

10.46743/2160-3715/2024.7187

Recommended APA Citation

Copple, J., & Roulston, K. (2024). Composing with theory: Considerations for teaching novice qualitative researchers. The Qualitative Report, 29(11), 2936-2949. https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2024.7187

ORCID ID

0000-0001-9633-5144; 0000-0002-9429-2694