This one-day course will be offered via Zoom only. Course schedule is 10:00am – 4:00pm, with a 1 hour lunch and (2) 10 minute breaks (1 in morning and 1 in afternoon). Attendance is required as it will not be recorded.

Description: This 6-hour course provides a general introduction to qualitative data collection, with an emphasis on applications within public health. We will examine the principles behind crafting cogent and engaging research questions, as well as selecting appropriate sampling strategies and sample sizes for qualitative inquiry. The workshop then delves into the two most commonly employed qualitative data collection methods – in-depth interviews and focus groups. Participants will gain first-hand experience designing instruments and conducting qualitative interviews. Best practices associated with qualitative data management, including transcription and translation, will comprise the final portion of the workshop.

Course structure includes lecture, demonstrations, and hands-on exercises. Examples will include both domestic and international research contexts.

Learning Objectives: 

At the end of this course, participants will be able to:

•    Define what qualitative research is (and is not)

•    Craft a cohesive and implementable research question

•    Identify appropriate sampling methods and sample sizes for a qualitative study

•    Effectively prepare for and execute in-depth interviews and focus groups

•    Explain the importance of, and principles behind, good data management

This course will count as 7.0 CSS short course credit hours.