
The Discovery of Grounded Theory: Strategies for Qualitative Research. Grounded theory method: Procedures, canons, and evaluative criteria.

The comparative process continues until the researcher reaches saturation - the point at which there are no new ideas and insights emerging from the data. This process of continually collecting and analyzing data and engaging in a theoretial sampling process are critical features of the constant comparative analysis that Glaser and Strauss describe. speak to nurses with varying educational backgrounds). Based on this initial theory, the researcher decides how next to sample (e.g.

The process of analysis allows the researcher to begin to develop a theory with regard to his or her question. Registered Nurses).Īfter collecting some data the researcher analyzes it. Identifying an initial sample of people to observe or talk to (e.g. This generative question, leads to the first iteration of theoretical sampling. how do nurses see their role in the care delivery process in primary care settings?)
#Grounded theory qualitative research series
The process begins with the researcher asking a question or series of questions designed to lead to the development or generation of a theory regarding some aspect of social life (e.g. This back and forth movement between data collection and analysis is sometimes called an 'iteration.' Grounded theory research involves multiple iterations. This involves the researcher moving in and out of the data collection and analysis process. The Grounded Theory Approach involves constant comparative analysis or what has come to be called the Constant Comparative Method. written protocols, charts, flowsheets, educational handouts) - materials used by members of the culture in their daily lives. Researchers using a grounded theory approach may also learn about a group or culture by collecting and studying artifacts (e.g. The types of interviews conducted by researchers using this approach vary in degree of formality (informal interview to semi-structured to structured interviews).Ĭollection of Artifacts and Texts. Talking with informants is called interviewing. Researchers using a Grounded Theory approach will learn about a culture or group by speaking with informants or members of the culture or group. This often requires extensive work in the setting being studied. Participant Observation. This involves the researcher immersing him or herself in the daily lives and routines of those being studied. Grounded Theory is an approach for developing theory that is "grounded in data systematically gathered and analyzed" (Strauss & Corbin, 1994). Glaser and Strauss were arguing for an alternative approach, one that involves developing theories in a way that is connected to the data collection and analysis process. At the time, much of theory development was done a priori - before collecting and analyzing data. Glaser and Strasss articulate an empirical approach for developing theory. In fact, one of the goals of this book was to provide a 'legitimate' approach for doing qualitative research.

In many ways, this book can be read and understood as a response to positivistic approaches in sociology. This book was written at a time when researchers in sociology were questioning the assumptions of positivism. The Grounded Theory approach was first articulated by Glaser & Strauss in their 1967 book The Discovery of Grounded Theory.
