qualitative research education topics

Research Topics & Ideas: Education

170+ Research Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

If you’re just starting out exploring education-related topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of research topics and ideas , including examples from actual dissertations and theses..

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Education Research Topics

• How to find a research topic (video)
• List of 50+ education-related research topics/ideas
• List of 120+ level-specific research topics 
• Examples of actual dissertation topics in education
• Tips to fast-track your topic ideation (video)
• Free Webinar : Topic Ideation 101
• Where to get extra help

Education-Related Research Topics & Ideas

Below you’ll find a list of education-related research topics and idea kickstarters. These are fairly broad and flexible to various contexts, so keep in mind that you will need to refine them a little. Nevertheless, they should inspire some ideas for your project.

• The impact of school funding on student achievement
• The effects of social and emotional learning on student well-being
• The effects of parental involvement on student behaviour
• The impact of teacher training on student learning
• The impact of classroom design on student learning
• The impact of poverty on education
• The use of student data to inform instruction
• The role of parental involvement in education
• The effects of mindfulness practices in the classroom
• The use of technology in the classroom
• The role of critical thinking in education
• The use of formative and summative assessments in the classroom
• The use of differentiated instruction in the classroom
• The use of gamification in education
• The effects of teacher burnout on student learning
• The impact of school leadership on student achievement
• The effects of teacher diversity on student outcomes
• The role of teacher collaboration in improving student outcomes
• The implementation of blended and online learning
• The effects of teacher accountability on student achievement
• The effects of standardized testing on student learning
• The effects of classroom management on student behaviour
• The effects of school culture on student achievement
• The use of student-centred learning in the classroom
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on student outcomes
• The achievement gap in minority and low-income students
• The use of culturally responsive teaching in the classroom
• The impact of teacher professional development on student learning
• The use of project-based learning in the classroom
• The effects of teacher expectations on student achievement
• The use of adaptive learning technology in the classroom
• The impact of teacher turnover on student learning
• The effects of teacher recruitment and retention on student learning
• The impact of early childhood education on later academic success
• The impact of parental involvement on student engagement
• The use of positive reinforcement in education
• The impact of school climate on student engagement
• The role of STEM education in preparing students for the workforce
• The effects of school choice on student achievement
• The use of technology in the form of online tutoring

Level-Specific Research Topics

Looking for research topics for a specific level of education? We’ve got you covered. Below you can find research topic ideas for primary, secondary and tertiary-level education contexts. Click the relevant level to view the respective list.

Research Topics: Pick An Education Level

Primary education.

• Investigating the effects of peer tutoring on academic achievement in primary school
• Exploring the benefits of mindfulness practices in primary school classrooms
• Examining the effects of different teaching strategies on primary school students’ problem-solving skills
• The use of storytelling as a teaching strategy in primary school literacy instruction
• The role of cultural diversity in promoting tolerance and understanding in primary schools
• The impact of character education programs on moral development in primary school students
• Investigating the use of technology in enhancing primary school mathematics education
• The impact of inclusive curriculum on promoting equity and diversity in primary schools
• The impact of outdoor education programs on environmental awareness in primary school students
• The influence of school climate on student motivation and engagement in primary schools
• Investigating the effects of early literacy interventions on reading comprehension in primary school students
• The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student achievement in primary schools
• Exploring the benefits of inclusive education for students with special needs in primary schools
• Investigating the effects of teacher-student feedback on academic motivation in primary schools
• The role of technology in developing digital literacy skills in primary school students
• Effective strategies for fostering a growth mindset in primary school students
• Investigating the role of parental support in reducing academic stress in primary school children
• The role of arts education in fostering creativity and self-expression in primary school students
• Examining the effects of early childhood education programs on primary school readiness
• Examining the effects of homework on primary school students’ academic performance
• The role of formative assessment in improving learning outcomes in primary school classrooms
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic outcomes in primary school
• Investigating the effects of classroom environment on student behavior and learning outcomes in primary schools
• Investigating the role of creativity and imagination in primary school curriculum
• The impact of nutrition and healthy eating programs on academic performance in primary schools
• The impact of social-emotional learning programs on primary school students’ well-being and academic performance
• The role of parental involvement in academic achievement of primary school children
• Examining the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior in primary school
• The role of school leadership in creating a positive school climate Exploring the benefits of bilingual education in primary schools
• The effectiveness of project-based learning in developing critical thinking skills in primary school students
• The role of inquiry-based learning in fostering curiosity and critical thinking in primary school students
• The effects of class size on student engagement and achievement in primary schools
• Investigating the effects of recess and physical activity breaks on attention and learning in primary school
• Exploring the benefits of outdoor play in developing gross motor skills in primary school children
• The effects of educational field trips on knowledge retention in primary school students
• Examining the effects of inclusive classroom practices on students’ attitudes towards diversity in primary schools
• The impact of parental involvement in homework on primary school students’ academic achievement
• Investigating the effectiveness of different assessment methods in primary school classrooms
• The influence of physical activity and exercise on cognitive development in primary school children
• Exploring the benefits of cooperative learning in promoting social skills in primary school students

Secondary Education

• Investigating the effects of school discipline policies on student behavior and academic success in secondary education
• The role of social media in enhancing communication and collaboration among secondary school students
• The impact of school leadership on teacher effectiveness and student outcomes in secondary schools
• Investigating the effects of technology integration on teaching and learning in secondary education
• Exploring the benefits of interdisciplinary instruction in promoting critical thinking skills in secondary schools
• The impact of arts education on creativity and self-expression in secondary school students
• The effectiveness of flipped classrooms in promoting student learning in secondary education
• The role of career guidance programs in preparing secondary school students for future employment
• Investigating the effects of student-centered learning approaches on student autonomy and academic success in secondary schools
• The impact of socio-economic factors on educational attainment in secondary education
• Investigating the impact of project-based learning on student engagement and academic achievement in secondary schools
• Investigating the effects of multicultural education on cultural understanding and tolerance in secondary schools
• The influence of standardized testing on teaching practices and student learning in secondary education
• Investigating the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior and academic engagement in secondary education
• The influence of teacher professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in secondary schools
• The role of extracurricular activities in promoting holistic development and well-roundedness in secondary school students
• Investigating the effects of blended learning models on student engagement and achievement in secondary education
• The role of physical education in promoting physical health and well-being among secondary school students
• Investigating the effects of gender on academic achievement and career aspirations in secondary education
• Exploring the benefits of multicultural literature in promoting cultural awareness and empathy among secondary school students
• The impact of school counseling services on student mental health and well-being in secondary schools
• Exploring the benefits of vocational education and training in preparing secondary school students for the workforce
• The role of digital literacy in preparing secondary school students for the digital age
• The influence of parental involvement on academic success and well-being of secondary school students
• The impact of social-emotional learning programs on secondary school students’ well-being and academic success
• The role of character education in fostering ethical and responsible behavior in secondary school students
• Examining the effects of digital citizenship education on responsible and ethical technology use among secondary school students
• The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student outcomes in secondary schools
• The role of educational technology in promoting personalized learning experiences in secondary schools
• The impact of inclusive education on the social and academic outcomes of students with disabilities in secondary schools
• The influence of parental support on academic motivation and achievement in secondary education
• The role of school climate in promoting positive behavior and well-being among secondary school students
• Examining the effects of peer mentoring programs on academic achievement and social-emotional development in secondary schools
• Examining the effects of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and achievement in secondary schools
• Exploring the benefits of service-learning programs in promoting civic engagement among secondary school students
• The impact of educational policies on educational equity and access in secondary education
• Examining the effects of homework on academic achievement and student well-being in secondary education
• Investigating the effects of different assessment methods on student performance in secondary schools
• Examining the effects of single-sex education on academic performance and gender stereotypes in secondary schools
• The role of mentoring programs in supporting the transition from secondary to post-secondary education

Tertiary Education

• The role of student support services in promoting academic success and well-being in higher education
• The impact of internationalization initiatives on students’ intercultural competence and global perspectives in tertiary education
• Investigating the effects of active learning classrooms and learning spaces on student engagement and learning outcomes in tertiary education
• Exploring the benefits of service-learning experiences in fostering civic engagement and social responsibility in higher education
• The influence of learning communities and collaborative learning environments on student academic and social integration in higher education
• Exploring the benefits of undergraduate research experiences in fostering critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills
• Investigating the effects of academic advising and mentoring on student retention and degree completion in higher education
• The role of student engagement and involvement in co-curricular activities on holistic student development in higher education
• The impact of multicultural education on fostering cultural competence and diversity appreciation in higher education
• The role of internships and work-integrated learning experiences in enhancing students’ employability and career outcomes
• Examining the effects of assessment and feedback practices on student learning and academic achievement in tertiary education
• The influence of faculty professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in tertiary education
• The influence of faculty-student relationships on student success and well-being in tertiary education
• The impact of college transition programs on students’ academic and social adjustment to higher education
• The impact of online learning platforms on student learning outcomes in higher education
• The impact of financial aid and scholarships on access and persistence in higher education
• The influence of student leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities on personal development and campus engagement
• Exploring the benefits of competency-based education in developing job-specific skills in tertiary students
• Examining the effects of flipped classroom models on student learning and retention in higher education
• Exploring the benefits of online collaboration and virtual team projects in developing teamwork skills in tertiary students
• Investigating the effects of diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus climate and student experiences in tertiary education
• The influence of study abroad programs on intercultural competence and global perspectives of college students
• Investigating the effects of peer mentoring and tutoring programs on student retention and academic performance in tertiary education
• Investigating the effectiveness of active learning strategies in promoting student engagement and achievement in tertiary education
• Investigating the effects of blended learning models and hybrid courses on student learning and satisfaction in higher education
• The role of digital literacy and information literacy skills in supporting student success in the digital age
• Investigating the effects of experiential learning opportunities on career readiness and employability of college students
• The impact of e-portfolios on student reflection, self-assessment, and showcasing of learning in higher education
• The role of technology in enhancing collaborative learning experiences in tertiary classrooms
• The impact of research opportunities on undergraduate student engagement and pursuit of advanced degrees
• Examining the effects of competency-based assessment on measuring student learning and achievement in tertiary education
• Examining the effects of interdisciplinary programs and courses on critical thinking and problem-solving skills in college students
• The role of inclusive education and accessibility in promoting equitable learning experiences for diverse student populations
• The role of career counseling and guidance in supporting students’ career decision-making in tertiary education
• The influence of faculty diversity and representation on student success and inclusive learning environments in higher education

Education-Related Dissertations & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic in education, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses in the education space to see how this all comes together in practice.

Below, we’ve included a selection of education-related research projects to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

• From Rural to Urban: Education Conditions of Migrant Children in China (Wang, 2019)
• Energy Renovation While Learning English: A Guidebook for Elementary ESL Teachers (Yang, 2019)
• A Reanalyses of Intercorrelational Matrices of Visual and Verbal Learners’ Abilities, Cognitive Styles, and Learning Preferences (Fox, 2020)
• A study of the elementary math program utilized by a mid-Missouri school district (Barabas, 2020)
• Instructor formative assessment practices in virtual learning environments : a posthumanist sociomaterial perspective (Burcks, 2019)
• Higher education students services: a qualitative study of two mid-size universities’ direct exchange programs (Kinde, 2020)
• Exploring editorial leadership : a qualitative study of scholastic journalism advisers teaching leadership in Missouri secondary schools (Lewis, 2020)
• Selling the virtual university: a multimodal discourse analysis of marketing for online learning (Ludwig, 2020)
• Advocacy and accountability in school counselling: assessing the use of data as related to professional self-efficacy (Matthews, 2020)
• The use of an application screening assessment as a predictor of teaching retention at a midwestern, K-12, public school district (Scarbrough, 2020)
• Core values driving sustained elite performance cultures (Beiner, 2020)
• Educative features of upper elementary Eureka math curriculum (Dwiggins, 2020)
• How female principals nurture adult learning opportunities in successful high schools with challenging student demographics (Woodward, 2020)
• The disproportionality of Black Males in Special Education: A Case Study Analysis of Educator Perceptions in a Southeastern Urban High School (McCrae, 2021)

As you can see, these research topics are a lot more focused than the generic topic ideas we presented earlier. So, in order for you to develop a high-quality research topic, you’ll need to get specific and laser-focused on a specific context with specific variables of interest.  In the video below, we explore some other important things you’ll need to consider when crafting your research topic.

Get 1-On-1 Help

If you’re still unsure about how to find a quality research topic within education, check out our Research Topic Kickstarter service, which is the perfect starting point for developing a unique, well-justified research topic.

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Home » 500+ Qualitative Research Titles and Topics

500+ Qualitative Research Titles and Topics

Table of Contents

Qualitative research is a methodological approach that involves gathering and analyzing non-numerical data to understand and interpret social phenomena. Unlike quantitative research , which emphasizes the collection of numerical data through surveys and experiments, qualitative research is concerned with exploring the subjective experiences, perspectives, and meanings of individuals and groups. As such, qualitative research topics can be diverse and encompass a wide range of social issues and phenomena. From exploring the impact of culture on identity formation to examining the experiences of marginalized communities, qualitative research offers a rich and nuanced perspective on complex social issues. In this post, we will explore some of the most compelling qualitative research topics and provide some tips on how to conduct effective qualitative research.

Qualitative Research Titles

Qualitative research titles often reflect the study’s focus on understanding the depth and complexity of human behavior, experiences, or social phenomena. Here are some examples across various fields:

• “Understanding the Impact of Project-Based Learning on Student Engagement in High School Classrooms: A Qualitative Study”
• “Navigating the Transition: Experiences of International Students in American Universities”
• “The Role of Parental Involvement in Early Childhood Education: Perspectives from Teachers and Parents”
• “Exploring the Effects of Teacher Feedback on Student Motivation and Self-Efficacy in Middle Schools”
• “Digital Literacy in the Classroom: Teacher Strategies for Integrating Technology in Elementary Education”
• “Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices: A Case Study in Diverse Urban Schools”
• “The Influence of Extracurricular Activities on Academic Achievement: Student Perspectives”
• “Barriers to Implementing Inclusive Education in Public Schools: A Qualitative Inquiry”
• “Teacher Professional Development and Its Impact on Classroom Practice: A Qualitative Exploration”
• “Student-Centered Learning Environments: A Qualitative Study of Classroom Dynamics and Outcomes”
• “The Experience of First-Year Teachers: Challenges, Support Systems, and Professional Growth”
• “Exploring the Role of School Leadership in Fostering a Positive School Culture”
• “Peer Relationships and Learning Outcomes in Cooperative Learning Settings: A Qualitative Analysis”
• “The Impact of Social Media on Student Learning and Engagement: Teacher and Student Perspectives”
• “Understanding Special Education Needs: Parent and Teacher Perceptions of Support Services in Schools

Health Science

• “Living with Chronic Pain: Patient Narratives and Coping Strategies in Managing Daily Life”
• “Healthcare Professionals’ Perspectives on the Challenges of Rural Healthcare Delivery”
• “Exploring the Mental Health Impacts of COVID-19 on Frontline Healthcare Workers: A Qualitative Study”
• “Patient and Family Experiences of Palliative Care: Understanding Needs and Preferences”
• “The Role of Community Health Workers in Improving Access to Maternal Healthcare in Rural Areas”
• “Barriers to Mental Health Services Among Ethnic Minorities: A Qualitative Exploration”
• “Understanding Patient Satisfaction in Telemedicine Services: A Qualitative Study of User Experiences”
• “The Impact of Cultural Competence Training on Healthcare Provider-Patient Communication”
• “Navigating the Transition to Adult Healthcare Services: Experiences of Adolescents with Chronic Conditions”
• “Exploring the Use of Alternative Medicine Among Patients with Chronic Diseases: A Qualitative Inquiry”
• “The Role of Social Support in the Rehabilitation Process of Stroke Survivors”
• “Healthcare Decision-Making Among Elderly Patients: A Qualitative Study of Preferences and Influences”
• “Nurse Perceptions of Patient Safety Culture in Hospital Settings: A Qualitative Analysis”
• “Experiences of Women with Postpartum Depression: Barriers to Seeking Help”
• “The Impact of Nutrition Education on Eating Behaviors Among College Students: A Qualitative Approach”
• “Understanding Resilience in Survivors of Childhood Trauma: A Narrative Inquiry”
• “The Role of Mindfulness in Managing Work-Related Stress Among Corporate Employees: A Qualitative Study”
• “Coping Mechanisms Among Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder”
• “Exploring the Psychological Impact of Social Isolation in the Elderly: A Phenomenological Study”
• “Identity Formation in Adolescence: The Influence of Social Media and Peer Groups”
• “The Experience of Forgiveness in Interpersonal Relationships: A Qualitative Exploration”
• “Perceptions of Happiness and Well-Being Among University Students: A Cultural Perspective”
• “The Impact of Art Therapy on Anxiety and Depression in Adult Cancer Patients”
• “Narratives of Recovery: A Qualitative Study on the Journey Through Addiction Rehabilitation”
• “Exploring the Psychological Effects of Long-Term Unemployment: A Grounded Theory Approach”
• “Attachment Styles and Their Influence on Adult Romantic Relationships: A Qualitative Analysis”
• “The Role of Personal Values in Career Decision-Making Among Young Adults”
• “Understanding the Stigma of Mental Illness in Rural Communities: A Qualitative Inquiry”
• “Exploring the Use of Digital Mental Health Interventions Among Adolescents: A Qualitative Study”
• “The Psychological Impact of Climate Change on Young Adults: An Exploration of Anxiety and Action”
• “Navigating Identity: The Role of Social Media in Shaping Youth Culture and Self-Perception”
• “Community Resilience in the Face of Urban Gentrification: A Case Study of Neighborhood Change”
• “The Dynamics of Intergenerational Relationships in Immigrant Families: A Qualitative Analysis”
• “Social Capital and Economic Mobility in Low-Income Neighborhoods: An Ethnographic Approach”
• “Gender Roles and Career Aspirations Among Young Adults in Conservative Societies”
• “The Stigma of Mental Health in the Workplace: Employee Narratives and Organizational Culture”
• “Exploring the Intersection of Race, Class, and Education in Urban School Systems”
• “The Impact of Digital Divide on Access to Healthcare Information in Rural Communities”
• “Social Movements and Political Engagement Among Millennials: A Qualitative Study”
• “Cultural Adaptation and Identity Among Second-Generation Immigrants: A Phenomenological Inquiry”
• “The Role of Religious Institutions in Providing Community Support and Social Services”
• “Negotiating Public Space: Experiences of LGBTQ+ Individuals in Urban Environments”
• “The Sociology of Food: Exploring Eating Habits and Food Practices Across Cultures”
• “Work-Life Balance Challenges Among Dual-Career Couples: A Qualitative Exploration”
• “The Influence of Peer Networks on Substance Use Among Adolescents: A Community Study”

Business and Management

• “Navigating Organizational Change: Employee Perceptions and Adaptation Strategies in Mergers and Acquisitions”
• “Corporate Social Responsibility: Consumer Perceptions and Brand Loyalty in the Retail Sector”
• “Leadership Styles and Organizational Culture: A Comparative Study of Tech Startups”
• “Workplace Diversity and Inclusion: Best Practices and Challenges in Multinational Corporations”
• “Consumer Trust in E-commerce: A Qualitative Study of Online Shopping Behaviors”
• “The Gig Economy and Worker Satisfaction: Exploring the Experiences of Freelance Professionals”
• “Entrepreneurial Resilience: Success Stories and Lessons Learned from Failed Startups”
• “Employee Engagement and Productivity in Remote Work Settings: A Post-Pandemic Analysis”
• “Brand Storytelling: How Narrative Strategies Influence Consumer Engagement”
• “Sustainable Business Practices: Stakeholder Perspectives in the Fashion Industry”
• “Cross-Cultural Communication Challenges in Global Teams: Strategies for Effective Collaboration”
• “Innovative Workspaces: The Impact of Office Design on Creativity and Collaboration”
• “Consumer Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence in Customer Service: A Qualitative Exploration”
• “The Role of Mentoring in Career Development: Insights from Women in Leadership Positions”
• “Agile Management Practices: Adoption and Impact in Traditional Industries”

Environmental Studies

• “Community-Based Conservation Efforts in Tropical Rainforests: A Qualitative Study of Local Perspectives and Practices”
• “Urban Sustainability Initiatives: Exploring Resident Participation and Impact in Green City Projects”
• “Perceptions of Climate Change Among Indigenous Populations: Insights from Traditional Ecological Knowledge”
• “Environmental Justice and Industrial Pollution: A Case Study of Community Advocacy and Response”
• “The Role of Eco-Tourism in Promoting Conservation Awareness: Perspectives from Tour Operators and Visitors”
• “Sustainable Agriculture Practices Among Smallholder Farmers: Challenges and Opportunities”
• “Youth Engagement in Climate Action Movements: Motivations, Perceptions, and Outcomes”
• “Corporate Environmental Responsibility: A Qualitative Analysis of Stakeholder Expectations and Company Practices”
• “The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Ecosystems: Community Awareness and Behavioral Change”
• “Renewable Energy Adoption in Rural Communities: Barriers, Facilitators, and Social Implications”
• “Water Scarcity and Community Adaptation Strategies in Arid Regions: A Grounded Theory Approach”
• “Urban Green Spaces: Public Perceptions and Use Patterns in Megacities”
• “Environmental Education in Schools: Teachers’ Perspectives on Integrating Sustainability into Curricula”
• “The Influence of Environmental Activism on Policy Change: Case Studies of Grassroots Campaigns”
• “Cultural Practices and Natural Resource Management: A Qualitative Study of Indigenous Stewardship Models”

Anthropology

• “Kinship and Social Organization in Matrilineal Societies: An Ethnographic Study”
• “Rituals and Beliefs Surrounding Death and Mourning in Diverse Cultures: A Comparative Analysis”
• “The Impact of Globalization on Indigenous Languages and Cultural Identity”
• “Food Sovereignty and Traditional Agricultural Practices Among Indigenous Communities”
• “Navigating Modernity: The Integration of Traditional Healing Practices in Contemporary Healthcare Systems”
• “Gender Roles and Equality in Hunter-Gatherer Societies: An Anthropological Perspective”
• “Sacred Spaces and Religious Practices: An Ethnographic Study of Pilgrimage Sites”
• “Youth Subcultures and Resistance: An Exploration of Identity and Expression in Urban Environments”
• “Cultural Constructions of Disability and Inclusion: A Cross-Cultural Analysis”
• “Interethnic Marriages and Cultural Syncretism: Case Studies from Multicultural Societies”
• “The Role of Folklore and Storytelling in Preserving Cultural Heritage”
• “Economic Anthropology of Gift-Giving and Reciprocity in Tribal Communities”
• “Digital Anthropology: The Role of Social Media in Shaping Political Movements”
• “Migration and Diaspora: Maintaining Cultural Identity in Transnational Communities”
• “Cultural Adaptations to Climate Change Among Coastal Fishing Communities”

Communication Studies

• “The Dynamics of Family Communication in the Digital Age: A Qualitative Inquiry”
• “Narratives of Identity and Belonging in Diaspora Communities Through Social Media”
• “Organizational Communication and Employee Engagement: A Case Study in the Non-Profit Sector”
• “Cultural Influences on Communication Styles in Multinational Teams: An Ethnographic Approach”
• “Media Representation of Women in Politics: A Content Analysis and Audience Perception Study”
• “The Role of Communication in Building Sustainable Community Development Projects”
• “Interpersonal Communication in Online Dating: Strategies, Challenges, and Outcomes”
• “Public Health Messaging During Pandemics: A Qualitative Study of Community Responses”
• “The Impact of Mobile Technology on Parent-Child Communication in the Digital Era”
• “Crisis Communication Strategies in the Hospitality Industry: A Case Study of Reputation Management”
• “Narrative Analysis of Personal Stories Shared on Mental Health Blogs”
• “The Influence of Podcasts on Political Engagement Among Young Adults”
• “Visual Communication and Brand Identity: A Qualitative Study of Consumer Interpretations”
• “Communication Barriers in Cross-Cultural Healthcare Settings: Patient and Provider Perspectives”
• “The Role of Internal Communication in Managing Organizational Change: Employee Experiences”

Information Technology

• “User Experience Design in Augmented Reality Applications: A Qualitative Study of Best Practices”
• “The Human Factor in Cybersecurity: Understanding Employee Behaviors and Attitudes Towards Phishing”
• “Adoption of Cloud Computing in Small and Medium Enterprises: Challenges and Success Factors”
• “Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management: A Qualitative Exploration of Potential Impacts”
• “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Personalizing User Experiences on E-commerce Platforms”
• “Digital Transformation in Traditional Industries: A Case Study of Technology Adoption Challenges”
• “Ethical Considerations in the Development of Smart Home Technologies: A Stakeholder Analysis”
• “The Impact of Social Media Algorithms on News Consumption and Public Opinion”
• “Collaborative Software Development: Practices and Challenges in Open Source Projects”
• “Understanding the Digital Divide: Access to Information Technology in Rural Communities”
• “Data Privacy Concerns and User Trust in Internet of Things (IoT) Devices”
• “The Effectiveness of Gamification in Educational Software: A Qualitative Study of Engagement and Motivation”
• “Virtual Teams and Remote Work: Communication Strategies and Tools for Effectiveness”
• “User-Centered Design in Mobile Health Applications: Evaluating Usability and Accessibility”
• “The Influence of Technology on Work-Life Balance: Perspectives from IT Professionals”

Tourism and Hospitality

• “Exploring the Authenticity of Cultural Heritage Tourism in Indigenous Communities”
• “Sustainable Tourism Practices: Perceptions and Implementations in Small Island Destinations”
• “The Impact of Social Media Influencers on Destination Choice Among Millennials”
• “Gastronomy Tourism: Exploring the Culinary Experiences of International Visitors in Rural Regions”
• “Eco-Tourism and Conservation: Stakeholder Perspectives on Balancing Tourism and Environmental Protection”
• “The Role of Hospitality in Enhancing the Cultural Exchange Experience of Exchange Students”
• “Dark Tourism: Visitor Motivations and Experiences at Historical Conflict Sites”
• “Customer Satisfaction in Luxury Hotels: A Qualitative Study of Service Excellence and Personalization”
• “Adventure Tourism: Understanding the Risk Perception and Safety Measures Among Thrill-Seekers”
• “The Influence of Local Communities on Tourist Experiences in Ecotourism Sites”
• “Event Tourism: Economic Impacts and Community Perspectives on Large-Scale Music Festivals”
• “Heritage Tourism and Identity: Exploring the Connections Between Historic Sites and National Identity”
• “Tourist Perceptions of Sustainable Accommodation Practices: A Study of Green Hotels”
• “The Role of Language in Shaping the Tourist Experience in Multilingual Destinations”
• “Health and Wellness Tourism: Motivations and Experiences of Visitors to Spa and Retreat Centers”

Qualitative Research Topics

Qualitative Research Topics are as follows:

• Understanding the lived experiences of first-generation college students
• Exploring the impact of social media on self-esteem among adolescents
• Investigating the effects of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction
• Analyzing the perceptions of employees regarding organizational culture
• Examining the impact of parental involvement on academic achievement of elementary school students
• Investigating the role of music therapy in managing symptoms of depression
• Understanding the experience of women in male-dominated industries
• Exploring the factors that contribute to successful leadership in non-profit organizations
• Analyzing the effects of peer pressure on substance abuse among adolescents
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with disabilities in the workplace
• Understanding the factors that contribute to burnout among healthcare professionals
• Examining the impact of social support on mental health outcomes
• Analyzing the perceptions of parents regarding sex education in schools
• Investigating the experiences of immigrant families in the education system
• Understanding the impact of trauma on mental health outcomes
• Exploring the effectiveness of animal-assisted therapy for individuals with anxiety
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful intergenerational relationships
• Investigating the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace
• Understanding the impact of online gaming on social skills development among adolescents
• Examining the perceptions of teachers regarding technology integration in the classroom
• Analyzing the experiences of women in leadership positions
• Investigating the factors that contribute to successful marriage and long-term relationships
• Understanding the impact of social media on political participation
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with mental health disorders in the criminal justice system
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful community-based programs for youth development
• Investigating the experiences of veterans in accessing mental health services
• Understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health outcomes
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood obesity prevention
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful multicultural education programs
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses in the workplace
• Understanding the impact of poverty on academic achievement
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with autism spectrum disorder in the workplace
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful employee retention strategies
• Investigating the experiences of caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease
• Understanding the impact of parent-child communication on adolescent sexual behavior
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding mental health services on campus
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful team building in the workplace
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with eating disorders in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of mentorship on career success
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with physical disabilities in the workplace
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful community-based programs for mental health
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with substance use disorders in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of social media on romantic relationships
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding child discipline strategies
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful cross-cultural communication in the workplace
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with anxiety disorders in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of cultural differences on healthcare delivery
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with hearing loss in the workplace
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful parent-teacher communication
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with depression in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health outcomes
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding alcohol and drug use on campus
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful mentor-mentee relationships
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with intellectual disabilities in the workplace
• Understanding the impact of work-family balance on employee satisfaction and well-being
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with autism spectrum disorder in vocational rehabilitation programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful project management in the construction industry
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with substance use disorders in peer support groups
• Understanding the impact of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction and mental health
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood nutrition
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful environmental sustainability initiatives in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with bipolar disorder in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of job stress on employee burnout and turnover
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with physical disabilities in recreational activities
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful strategic planning in nonprofit organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with hoarding disorder in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of culture on leadership styles and effectiveness
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding sexual health education on campus
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful supply chain management in the retail industry
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with personality disorders in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of multiculturalism on group dynamics in the workplace
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with chronic pain in mindfulness-based pain management programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful employee engagement strategies in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with internet addiction disorder in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of social comparison on body dissatisfaction and self-esteem
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood sleep habits
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful diversity and inclusion initiatives in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with schizophrenia in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of job crafting on employee motivation and job satisfaction
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with vision impairments in navigating public spaces
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful customer relationship management strategies in the service industry
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with dissociative amnesia in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of cultural intelligence on intercultural communication and collaboration
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding campus diversity and inclusion efforts
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful supply chain sustainability initiatives in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of transformational leadership on organizational performance and employee well-being
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with mobility impairments in public transportation
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful talent management strategies in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with substance use disorders in harm reduction programs
• Understanding the impact of gratitude practices on well-being and resilience
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood mental health and well-being
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful corporate social responsibility initiatives in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with borderline personality disorder in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of emotional labor on job stress and burnout
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with hearing impairments in healthcare settings
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful customer experience strategies in the hospitality industry
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with gender dysphoria in gender-affirming healthcare
• Understanding the impact of cultural differences on cross-cultural negotiation in the global marketplace
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding academic stress and mental health
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful supply chain agility in organizations
• Understanding the impact of music therapy on mental health and well-being
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with dyslexia in educational settings
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful leadership in nonprofit organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses in online support groups
• Understanding the impact of exercise on mental health and well-being
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood screen time
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful change management strategies in organizations
• Understanding the impact of cultural differences on international business negotiations
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with hearing impairments in the workplace
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful team building in corporate settings
• Understanding the impact of technology on communication in romantic relationships
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful community engagement strategies for local governments
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of financial stress on mental health and well-being
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful mentorship programs in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with gambling addictions in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of social media on body image and self-esteem
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood education
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful virtual team management strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with dissociative identity disorder in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of cultural differences on cross-cultural communication in healthcare settings
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with chronic pain in cognitive-behavioral therapy programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful community-building strategies in urban neighborhoods
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with alcohol use disorders in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of personality traits on romantic relationships
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding mental health stigma on campus
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful fundraising strategies for political campaigns
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with traumatic brain injuries in rehabilitation programs
• Understanding the impact of social support on mental health and well-being among the elderly
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses in medical treatment decision-making processes
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful innovation strategies in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with dissociative disorders in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of cultural differences on cross-cultural communication in education settings
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood physical activity
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful conflict resolution in family relationships
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with opioid use disorders in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of emotional intelligence on leadership effectiveness
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with learning disabilities in the workplace
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful change management in educational institutions
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with eating disorders in recovery support groups
• Understanding the impact of self-compassion on mental health and well-being
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding campus safety and security measures
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful marketing strategies for nonprofit organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with postpartum depression in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of ageism in the workplace
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with dyslexia in the education system
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with anxiety disorders in cognitive-behavioral therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of socioeconomic status on access to healthcare
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood screen time usage
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful supply chain management strategies
• Understanding the impact of parenting styles on child development
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with addiction in harm reduction programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful crisis management strategies in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with trauma in trauma-focused therapy programs
• Examining the perceptions of healthcare providers regarding patient-centered care
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful product development strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with autism spectrum disorder in employment programs
• Understanding the impact of cultural competence on healthcare outcomes
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses in healthcare navigation
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful community engagement strategies for non-profit organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with physical disabilities in the workplace
• Understanding the impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful supply chain sustainability strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with personality disorders in dialectical behavior therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of gender identity on mental health treatment seeking behaviors
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with schizophrenia in community-based treatment programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful project team management strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder in exposure and response prevention therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of cultural competence on academic achievement and success
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding academic integrity
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful social media marketing strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with bipolar disorder in community-based treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of mindfulness on academic achievement and success
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with substance use disorders in medication-assisted treatment programs
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with anxiety disorders in exposure therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of healthcare disparities on health outcomes
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful supply chain optimization strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with borderline personality disorder in schema therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of culture on perceptions of mental health stigma
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with trauma in art therapy programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful digital marketing strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with eating disorders in online support groups
• Understanding the impact of workplace bullying on job satisfaction and performance
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding mental health resources on campus
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful supply chain risk management strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with chronic pain in mindfulness-based pain management programs
• Understanding the impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy on social anxiety disorder
• Understanding the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and well-being
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with eating disorders in treatment programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful leadership in business organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with chronic pain in cognitive-behavioral therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of cultural differences on intercultural communication
• Examining the perceptions of teachers regarding inclusive education for students with disabilities
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with depression in therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of workplace culture on employee retention and turnover
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with traumatic brain injuries in rehabilitation programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful crisis communication strategies in organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with anxiety disorders in mindfulness-based interventions
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses in healthcare settings
• Understanding the impact of technology on work-life balance
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with learning disabilities in academic settings
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful entrepreneurship in small businesses
• Understanding the impact of gender identity on mental health and well-being
• Examining the perceptions of individuals with disabilities regarding accessibility in public spaces
• Understanding the impact of religion on coping strategies for stress and anxiety
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses in complementary and alternative medicine treatments
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful customer retention strategies in business organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with postpartum depression in therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of ageism on older adults in healthcare settings
• Examining the perceptions of students regarding online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful team building in virtual work environments
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with gambling disorders in treatment programs
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses in peer support groups
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful social media marketing strategies for businesses
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with ADHD in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of sleep on cognitive and emotional functioning
• Examining the perceptions of individuals with chronic illnesses regarding healthcare access and affordability
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with borderline personality disorder in dialectical behavior therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of social support on caregiver well-being
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses in disability activism
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful cultural competency training programs in healthcare settings
• Understanding the impact of personality disorders on interpersonal relationships
• Examining the perceptions of healthcare providers regarding the use of telehealth services
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with dissociative disorders in therapy programs
• Understanding the impact of gender bias in hiring practices
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with visual impairments in the workplace
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful diversity and inclusion programs in the workplace
• Understanding the impact of online dating on romantic relationships
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood vaccination
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful communication in healthcare settings
• Understanding the impact of cultural stereotypes on academic achievement
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with substance use disorders in sober living programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful classroom management strategies
• Understanding the impact of social support on addiction recovery
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding mental health stigma
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful conflict resolution in the workplace
• Understanding the impact of race and ethnicity on healthcare access and outcomes
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder in treatment programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful project management strategies
• Understanding the impact of teacher-student relationships on academic achievement
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful customer service strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with social anxiety disorder in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of workplace stress on job satisfaction and performance
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with disabilities in sports and recreation
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful marketing strategies for small businesses
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with phobias in treatment programs
• Understanding the impact of culture on attitudes towards mental health and illness
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding sexual assault prevention
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful time management strategies
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with addiction in recovery support groups
• Understanding the impact of mindfulness on emotional regulation and well-being
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with chronic pain in treatment programs
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful conflict resolution in romantic relationships
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with autism spectrum disorder in social skills training programs
• Understanding the impact of parent-child communication on adolescent substance use
• Examining the perceptions of parents regarding childhood mental health services
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful fundraising strategies for non-profit organizations
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses in support groups
• Understanding the impact of personality traits on career success and satisfaction
• Exploring the experiences of individuals with disabilities in accessing public transportation
• Analyzing the factors that contribute to successful team building in sports teams
• Investigating the experiences of individuals with chronic pain in alternative medicine treatments
• Understanding the impact of stigma on mental health treatment seeking behaviors
• Examining the perceptions of college students regarding diversity and inclusion on campus.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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100+ Trending Qualitative Research Topics For College Students

Qualitative research topics are very important in college because they help students learn more about different subjects. They can think more deeply about things when they do this kind of study.

Qualitative research involves methods like interviews, observations, and case studies. It’s all about understanding human behavior, social trends, or complex issues in specific situations.

It’s also about exploring new ideas and adding to our knowledge. These topics often connect what we learn in class with real-life situations. By doing qualitative research, students improve their research skills, learn to interpret data better, and better understand the subjects they’re studying. 

This article will give you 100+ Trending ideas for qualitative research topics that college students in a range of subjects can work on.

What are Qualitative Research Topics

Table of Contents

Qualitative research topics can be studied to learn more about things, understand events, or determine what they mean using qualitative methods. 

Quantitative research looks at numbers and statistics, but qualitative research tries to understand people’s thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and relationships with others more deeply. 

The qualitative study fields include psychology, sociology, education, anthropology, literature, etc. Some examples are looking into how social media affects their self-esteem, how teachers and students interact in multicultural classrooms, or how people from different groups feel about climate change. 

Through interviews, observations, focus groups, and textual analysis, these topics try to get to deep, detailed understanding of difficult problems.

Key Characteristics of Qualitative Research

Qualitative research is different from counting numbers or statistics. It focuses on understanding people’s experiences and behaviors deeply. Here are its main points:

• Deep Exploration: Qualitative research deepens into understanding why people do what they do and how they experience things.
• Understanding Context: It looks at the bigger picture—like culture, society, and environment—to understand how these influence people.
• Personal Perspective: Researchers see things from their point of view and understand that everyone may have different views.
• Flexible Approach: Researchers can change how they study things as they learn more.
• Many Ways to Collect Info: They use different methods, like talking to people, watching them, or looking at things they write or make.
• Seeing the Whole Picture: Instead of focusing on one part of something, they look at everything together.
• Finding Patterns: They see what comes from what people say and do rather than deciding what to look for first.
• Researcher’s Role: People studying things is important because they talk to people and see things that shape their understanding.
• Listening to People: They care about what people say and think and focus on understanding their experiences.
• Natural Places: They often study people where they live and work to see how they act in their usual surroundings.

These things make qualitative research good at understanding why people act and think as they do.

Also Read: 170+ Creative SK Project Ideas For All Levels In 2024

Here are 100+ qualitative research topics for college students categorized into different fields of study:

Qualitative Research Topics In Education

• The impact of personalized learning on student engagement.
• Parental involvement and its effect on academic achievement.
• Perceptions of online education among students and instructors.
• Strategies for integrating technology in classroom teaching.
• Factors influencing student motivation in high school.
• Teacher-student relationships and their impact on learning outcomes.
• The effectiveness of inclusive education programs.
• Student perspectives on standardized testing.
• Challenges faced by teachers in multicultural classrooms.
• The role of mentoring programs in student success.

Qualitative Research Topics In Psychology

• Social media and its influence on self-esteem in adolescents.
• Coping mechanisms for stress among college students.
• Gender differences in coping with anxiety disorders.
• The impact of childhood trauma on adult relationships.
• Cultural variations in perceptions of mental health.
• Factors influencing decision-making processes in adolescents.
• The psychology of forgiveness and its implications for mental health.
• Body image perceptions among different cultural groups.
• The role of music therapy in treating depression.
• Attitudes towards seeking therapy in different demographic groups.

Qualitative Research Topics In Sociology

• The portrayal of gender roles in popular media.
• Social perceptions of homelessness in urban communities.
• Cultural identity among second-generation immigrants.
• The impact of social media on social movements.
• Attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights in conservative societies.
• Factors influencing political participation among youth.
• The role of religion in shaping community values.
• Social attitudes towards interracial relationships.
• Generational differences in views on work-life balance.
• The effects of gentrification on local communities.

Qualitative Research Topics In Business and Economics

• Consumer behavior trends in the digital age.
• The role of corporate social responsibility in brand perception.
• Gender disparities in leadership positions in corporate environments.
• Factors influencing entrepreneurship among millennials.
• The impact of globalization on local businesses.
• Ethical dilemmas in business decision-making.
• Employee satisfaction and its relationship with organizational performance.
• The effectiveness of remote work policies in enhancing productivity.
• Financial literacy levels among college students.
• Sustainability practices in supply chain management.

Also Read: 40+ Interesting TensorFlow Project Ideas For All Levels In 2024

Qualitative Research Topics In Health and Wellness

• Perceptions of body image and its impact on eating disorders.
• The role of exercise in mental health maintenance.
• Cultural perspectives on alternative medicine practices.
• Factors influencing vaccine hesitancy among parents.
• The impact of social media on perceptions of beauty standards.
• Attitudes towards organ donation in different demographic groups.
• The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in stress reduction.
• Mental health stigma among college students.
• The influence of family dynamics on adolescent substance abuse.
• Access to healthcare services among marginalized communities.

Qualitative Research Topics In Environmental Studies

• Public perceptions of climate change and its implications.
• Sustainable living practices among urban households.
• The impact of plastic waste on marine ecosystems.
• Attitudes towards renewable energy sources in rural communities.
• Conservation efforts and community involvement in local parks.
• The role of environmental education in promoting conservation behaviors.
• Urbanization and its effects on biodiversity.
• Consumer attitudes towards eco-friendly products.
• Water conservation strategies in agricultural communities.
• Environmental justice and its intersection with social inequality.

Qualitative Research Topics In Communication and Media Studies

• The influence of social media influencers on consumer behavior.
• Media portrayal of marginalized communities and its impact on public perception.
• The role of advertising in shaping cultural norms.
• Public opinion and media coverage of political campaigns.
• The evolution of digital storytelling in journalism.
• Cross-cultural communication challenges in global organizations.
• The impact of fake news on public trust in the media.
• Perceptions of privacy in the digital age.
• Gender representation in television programming.
• The effectiveness of health communication campaigns.

Qualitative Research Topics In Literature and Language Studies

• Themes of identity and belonging in contemporary literature.
• Translation strategies and cultural adaptation in literary works.
• The portrayal of mental illness in literature.
• Language acquisition and cultural integration among immigrants.
• Feminist perspectives in literary criticism.
• Historical and cultural influences on language evolution.
• Folklore and oral traditions in preserving cultural heritage.
• Literary representations of post-colonial identities.
• Narrative techniques in autobiographical literature.
• The impact of digital platforms on reading habits.

Qualitative Research Topics In History and Archaeology

• The role of archaeology in reconstructing ancient societies.
• Public perceptions of historical events and their influence on national identity.
• Archaeological ethics and the preservation of cultural heritage.
• Gender roles in ancient civilizations.
• Oral history and its contribution to understanding local communities.
• The impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures.
• Historical memory and commemoration practices.
• Technological advancements in archaeological research methods.
• The representation of history in popular culture.
• Archaeoastronomy and its implications for understanding ancient societies.

Qualitative Research Topics In Political Science and International Relations

• Youth political participation and civic engagement.
• Diplomatic negotiations and conflict resolution strategies.
• The impact of globalization on national sovereignty.
• Human rights discourse in international policymaking.
• Gender equality policies and their implementation in different countries.
• The role of international organizations in global governance.
• Migration policies and their effects on host societies.
• Environmental diplomacy and international agreements.
• Political polarization and its impact on democratic institutions.
• Peacebuilding efforts in post-conflict societies.

Qualitative Research Topics In Anthropology

• Cultural relativism and its implications for understanding diverse societies.
• Ethnographic research methods in studying community dynamics.
• Rituals and ceremonies in preserving cultural traditions.
• Indigenous knowledge systems and their relevance in modern contexts.
• Medical anthropology and cross-cultural perspectives on healthcare.
• Urbanization and its effects on traditional lifestyles.
• Food culture and identity formation.
• Gender roles in indigenous societies.
• The impact of tourism on local cultures.
• Ethical considerations in anthropological fieldwork.

These topics cover various disciplines, offering college students ample opportunities to explore qualitative research in areas that align with their academic interests and career goals.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Qualitative Research Topics For Students

When choosing a topic for qualitative research, consider these important factors to make sure your topic is a good fit:

• Interest and Passion : Pick a topic you find interesting and care about. This will keep you motivated while doing your research.
• Relevance : Make sure your topic relates to what you’re studying or learning about. It should add something new to what’s already known or fill in gaps in our understanding.
• Feasibility : Think about whether you can realistically research your topic. Consider things like access to information, resources, and available time.
• Scope : Define your topic clearly so it’s not too broad or too narrow. You want to be able to explore it deeply but still cover everything you need to.
• Research Questions : Identify specific questions your research will try to answer. These questions will guide what you do during your research, like interviews or looking at documents.
• Ethical Considerations : Consider if your research could raise any ethical issues. Think about things like keeping people’s information private, getting their permission to be part of the research, and ensuring no one gets hurt because of your research.
• Contribution : Think about how your research can help others learn more. Your topic should bring new ideas or solutions to what people are already talking about.
• Methodological Approach : Decide on the best way to do your research. You might interview people, observe them, or study documents. Pick the method that fits best with what you want to find out.
• Theoretical Framework : Think about the theories or ideas that will help explain what you find during your research. This will help you better understand your results and discuss them with others.
• Feedback and Support : Get advice from teachers or other students about your topic. They can help ensure it’s a good idea and fits what you must do for school.

Considering these factors will help you choose an interesting research topic that fits well with your studies, making your research experience successful and rewarding.

Examples of Trending Qualitative Research Topics

Qualitative research continues to evolve, addressing contemporary issues and exploring new dimensions of human experiences and societal phenomena. Here are some trending qualitative research topics:

In Social Sciences:

• Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Investigate how social media platforms influence self-perception, relationships, and mental well-being across different age groups.
• COVID-19 Pandemic and Social Change: Study the social, economic, and psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals and communities globally.
• Gender Identity and Expression: Explore the changing concepts of gender identity and expression in modern society, focusing on challenges faced by gender-nonconforming individuals.

In Education:

• Equity and Inclusion in Higher Education: Examine initiatives promoting equity and inclusion within higher education institutions, including policies, practices, and student experiences.
• Remote Learning Experiences During Crisis: Analyze the experiences of students, teachers, and parents during the shift to remote learning in emergencies like pandemics or natural disasters.
• Critical Pedagogy in Multicultural Classrooms: Investigate the application and essential effectiveness of pedagogy approaches in fostering critical thinking and cultural awareness among students.

In Health Sciences:

• Telehealth and Patient Care: Study the adoption and impact of telehealth services on patient care outcomes, provider-patient relationships, and healthcare accessibility.
• Experiences of Healthcare Workers During Crises: Explore healthcare workers’ experiences, challenges, and coping strategies during public health crises or emergencies.
• Health Disparities in Underserved Communities: Examine factors contributing to health disparities in underserved communities and explore effective strategies to address these disparities.

In Business:

• Workplace Diversity and Innovation: Investigate how diversity in organizational leadership and workforce composition influences innovation and overall organizational performance.
• Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives: Analyze perceptions and outcomes of CSR initiatives on brand reputation, consumer behavior, and stakeholder engagement.
• Entrepreneurship and Digital Transformation: Explore the role of digital technologies in shaping entrepreneurial practices, business models, and market dynamics.

In Environmental Studies:

• Community Resilience and Climate Change Adaptation: Study community responses and resilience strategies to climate change impacts, focusing on local adaptation measures and community engagement.
• Sustainable Urban Development: Investigate policies, practices, and community perceptions of sustainable urban development, including green infrastructure and smart city initiatives.
• Public Perception of Renewable Energy: Analyze public attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors towards renewable energy sources and factors influencing acceptance and adoption.

These topics represent current societal trends and issues where qualitative research is making significant contributions by providing deeper insights and contributing to positive change in various fields.

Final Words

When choosing a qualitative research topic, you should consider what interests you, how it fits into your study area, and whether or not you can do the research. You should know what questions to ask, follow moral rules, and ask others for help. What you read is interesting, and it gives us new things to think about.

If you carefully consider these things, you can start a research project that helps you learn more and makes a real difference in your studies and job. Finding the right subject is the first thing that needs to be done to make the research useful.

How do I know if a qualitative research topic suits my academic level?

Consider the complexity and depth of the topic in relation to your academic background and coursework. Ensure it aligns with your professors’ or academic institution’s expectations and requirements.

How can I ensure my chosen qualitative research topic is relevant and impactful?

Regularly engage with peers, mentors, or advisors to discuss the relevance of your topic in current academic discourse. Consider how your research can contribute new insights, address gaps, or provide practical implications within your field of study.

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189+ Most Exciting Qualitative Research Topics For Students

Researchers conduct qualitative studies to gain a holistic understanding of the topic under investigation. Analyzing qualitative? Looking for the best qualitative research topics? 

If yes, you are here at the right place. We are discussing here all the topics in every field. Basically, qualitative research is the most valuable approach within the fields of social sciences, humanities, and various other fields. 

Qualitative research uses a wide array of methods such as interviews, focus groups, participant observation, content analysis, and case studies. Even among others, to gather and analyze non-numerical data. 

In this blog, we will explore the diverse, most interesting qualitative research topics, highlighting their importance. Whether you are a student, a scholar, or a practitioner in your field, these best qualitative research ideas are most helpful for you.

Must Read: 21 Ways To Get Good Grades In College

What Is Qualitative Research?

Table of Contents

Qualitative research is a systematic and exploratory approach to research that focuses on understanding and interpreting the complexities of human experiences, behaviors, and phenomena. It aims to provide in-depth insights into the “how” and “why” of various issues by examining them in their natural settings and contexts. Unlike quantitative research, which primarily deals with numerical data and statistical analysis, qualitative research relies on non-numerical data such as interviews, observations, textual analysis, and participant narratives to uncover deeper meanings and patterns.

Key Characteristics of Qualitative Research

• Purpose : Qualitative research is used to delve into new or less understood areas, aiming to generate new hypotheses and theories.
• Example : Investigating the coping mechanisms of natural disaster survivors in regions where little prior research exists.
• Purpose : It seeks to understand and interpret participants’ perspectives, emotions, and experiences.
• Example : Examining how individuals with chronic pain perceive their condition and the medical care they receive.
• Purpose : Highlights the importance of context and situational factors in shaping human behavior and experiences.
• Example : Exploring how cultural backgrounds influence parenting styles in different communities.
• Purpose : Employs adaptable and open-ended data collection methods that evolve as new insights are gained.
• Example : Conducting semi-structured interviews where the researcher can ask follow-up questions based on participants’ answers.
• Purpose : Generates detailed, narrative data that offer deep insights into the studied topic, capturing the complexity of human experiences.
• Example : Collecting and analyzing detailed personal stories to understand career development and personal growth.

These characteristics enable qualitative research to provide a comprehensive, nuanced understanding of complex issues, often revealing insights that quantitative approaches might miss.

8 Great Tips On How To Choose Good Qualitative Research Topics

Here are some tips to help you select strong qualitative research topics:

1. Personal Interest and Passion: Start by considering what genuinely interests and excites you. Your enthusiasm for the topic will sustain your motivation throughout the research process.

2. Relevance: Ensure that your chosen topic is relevant to your field of study or the discipline you are working within. It should contribute to existing knowledge or address a meaningful research gap.

3. Research Gap Identification: Review relevant literature and research to identify gaps or areas where there is limited qualitative research. Look for unanswered questions or underexplored aspects of a particular subject.

4. Feasibility: Assess whether the topic is feasible within the scope of your research project. Consider factors like available time, resources, and access to potential participants or data sources.

5. Clarity and Specificity: Your research topic should be clear, specific, and well-defined. Avoid overly broad topics that are difficult to explore in depth. Narrow it down to a manageable focus.

6. Significance: Ask yourself why your research topic matters. Consider the potential implications and applications of your findings. How might your research contribute to understanding, policy, or practice?

7. Originality: Aim for a unique angle or perspective on the topic. While you can build on existing research, strive to offer a fresh viewpoint or new insights.

8. Researchable : Ensure that your topic is researchable using qualitative methods. It should allow you to collect relevant data and answer research questions effectively.

137+ Most Exciting Qualitative Research Topics For All Students  

Qualitative research topics in health and medicine.

• Experiences of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Perceptions of alternative medicine among cancer patients.
• Coping mechanisms of individuals with chronic illnesses.
• The impact of telemedicine on patient-doctor relationships.
• Barriers to mental health treatment-seeking among minority populations.
• Qualitative analysis of patient experiences with organ transplantation.
• Decision-making processes of families regarding end-of-life care.

Qualitative Research Topics In Education

• The role of parental involvement in student academic achievement.
• Teacher perceptions of remote learning during a pandemic.
• Peer influence on academic motivation and performance.
• Exploring the experiences of homeschooling families.
• The impact of technology on the classroom environment.
• Factors influencing student dropout rates in higher education.

Qualitative Research Topics In Psychology and Mental Health

• Understanding the stigma associated with seeking therapy.
• Experiences of individuals living with anxiety disorders.
• Perceptions of body image among adolescents.
• Coping strategies of survivors of traumatic events.
• The impact of social support on mental health recovery.
• Narratives of individuals with eating disorders.

Qualitative Research Topics In Sociology and Culture

• Experiences of immigrants in adapting to a new culture.
• The role of social media in shaping cultural identities.
• Perceptions of police-community relations in marginalized communities.
• Gender dynamics in the workplace and career progression.
• Qualitative analysis of online dating experiences.
• Narratives of LGBTQ+ individuals coming out to their families.

Qualitative Research Topics In Technology and Society

• User experiences with augmented reality applications.
• Perceptions of online privacy and data security.
• The impact of social media on political activism.
• Ethical considerations in artificial intelligence development.
• Qualitative analysis of online gaming communities.
• Experiences of individuals participating in virtual reality environments.

Qualitative Research Topics In Environmental Studies

• Public perceptions of climate change and environmental policies.
• Experiences of individuals involved in sustainable living practices.
• Qualitative analysis of environmental activism movements.
• Community responses to natural disasters and climate change.
• Perspectives on wildlife conservation efforts.

Qualitative Research Topics In Business and Economics

• Qualitative analysis of consumer behavior and brand loyalty.
• Entrepreneurial experiences of women in male-dominated industries.
• Factors influencing small business success or failure.
• Corporate social responsibility and its impact on consumer trust.
• Experiences of employees in remote work settings.

Qualitative Research Topics In Politics and Governance

• Perceptions of voter suppression and electoral integrity.
• Experiences of political activists in grassroots movements.
• The role of social media in shaping political discourse.
• Narratives of individuals involved in civil rights movements.
• Qualitative analysis of government responses to crises.

Qualitative Research Topics In Family and Relationships

• Experiences of couples in long-distance relationships.
• Parenting styles and their impact on child development.
• Sibling dynamics and their influence on individual development.
• Narratives of individuals in arranged marriages.
• Experiences of single parents in raising their children.

Qualitative Research Topics In Art and Culture

• Qualitative analysis of the impact of art therapy on mental health.
• Experiences of artists in exploring social and political themes.
• Perceptions of cultural appropriation in the arts.
• Narratives of individuals involved in the hip-hop culture.
• The role of art in preserving cultural heritage.

Qualitative Research Topics In Crime and Justice

• Experiences of formerly incarcerated individuals reentering society.
• Perceptions of racial profiling and police violence.
• Qualitative analysis of restorative justice programs.
• Narratives of victims of cyberbullying.
• Perspectives on juvenile justice reform.

Qualitative Research Topics In Sports and Recreation

• Experiences of athletes in overcoming career-threatening injuries.
• The role of sports in building resilience among youth.
• Perceptions of performance-enhancing drugs in professional sports.
• Qualitative analysis of sports fandom and its impact on identity.
• Narratives of individuals involved in adaptive sports.

Qualitative Research Topics In History and Heritage

• Experiences of descendants of historical events or figures.
• Perceptions of cultural preservation and heritage conservation.
• Narratives of individuals connected to indigenous cultures.
• The impact of oral history on preserving traditions.
• Qualitative analysis of historical reenactment communities.

Qualitative Research Topics In Religion and Spirituality

• Experiences of individuals who have undergone religious conversion.
• Perceptions of spirituality and well-being.
• The role of religion in shaping moral values and ethics.
• Narratives of individuals who have left religious communities.
• Qualitative analysis of interfaith dialogue and cooperation.

Qualitative Research Topics In Travel and Tourism

• Experiences of solo travelers in foreign countries.
• Perceptions of sustainable tourism practices.
• Qualitative analysis of cultural immersion through travel.
• Narratives of individuals on pilgrimages or spiritual journeys.
• Experiences of individuals living in tourist destinations.

Qualitative Research Topics In Human Rights and Social Justice

• Narratives of human rights activists in advocating for change.
• Experiences of refugees and asylum seekers.
• Perceptions of income inequality and wealth distribution.
• Qualitative analysis of anti-discrimination campaigns.
• Perspectives on global efforts to combat human trafficking.

Qualitative Research Topics In Aging and Gerontology

• Experiences of individuals in assisted living facilities.
• Perceptions of aging and quality of life in older adults.
• Narratives of caregivers for elderly family members.
• The impact of intergenerational relationships on well-being.
• Qualitative analysis of end-of-life decisions and hospice care.

Qualitative Research Topics In Language and Communication

• Experiences of individuals learning a second language.
• Perceptions of non-verbal communication in cross-cultural interactions.
• Narratives of people who communicate primarily through sign language.
• The role of language in shaping identity and belonging.
• Qualitative analysis of online communication in virtual communities.

Qualitative Research Topics In Media and Entertainment

• Experiences of content creators in the digital media industry.
• Perceptions of representation in the film and television industry.
• The impact of music on emotional well-being and identity.
• Narratives of individuals involved in fan communities.
• Qualitative analysis of the effects of binge-watching on mental health.

Qualitative Research Topics In Ethics and Morality

• Experiences of individuals faced with ethical dilemmas.
• Perceptions of moral relativism and cultural differences.
• Narratives of whistleblowers in exposing corporate misconduct.
• The role of empathy in ethical decision-making.
• Qualitative analysis of the ethics of artificial intelligence.

Qualitative Research Topics In Technology and Education

• Experiences of teachers integrating technology in the classroom.
• Perceptions of online learning and its effectiveness.
• The impact of educational apps on student engagement.
• Narratives of students with disabilities using assistive technology.
• Qualitative analysis of the digital divide in education.

Qualitative Research Topics In Gender and Sexuality

• Experiences of transgender individuals in transitioning.
• Perceptions of gender roles and expectations.
• Narratives of individuals in same-sex relationships.
• The impact of intersectionality on experiences of gender and sexuality.
• Qualitative analysis of gender-based violence and advocacy.

Qualitative Research Topics In Migration and Diaspora

• Experiences of immigrants in maintaining cultural ties to their home country.
• Perceptions of identity among second-generation immigrants.
• Narratives of refugees resettling in new countries.
• The role of diaspora communities in supporting homeland causes.
• Qualitative analysis of immigration policies and their impact on families.

Qualitative Research Topics In Food and Nutrition

• Experiences of individuals with specific dietary restrictions.
• Perceptions of food sustainability and ethical consumption.
• Narratives of people with eating disorders seeking recovery.
• The role of food in cultural identity and traditions.
• Qualitative analysis of food insecurity and hunger relief efforts.

Qualitative Research Topics In Urban Studies and Community Development

• Experiences of residents in gentrifying neighborhoods.
• Perceptions of community engagement and empowerment.
• Narratives of individuals involved in urban farming initiatives.
• The impact of housing policies on homelessness.
• Qualitative analysis of neighborhood safety and crime prevention.

Qualitative Research Topics In Science and Technology Ethics

• Experiences of scientists in navigating ethical dilemmas.
• Perceptions of scientific responsibility in climate change research.
• Narratives of whistleblowers in scientific misconduct cases.
• The role of ethics in emerging technology development.
• Qualitative analysis of the ethics of genetic engineering.

Qualitative Research Topics In Social Media and Online Communities

• Experiences of individuals in online support groups.
• Perceptions of social media’s influence on self-esteem.
• Narratives of social media influencers and their impact.
• The role of online communities in social and political movements.
• Qualitative analysis of cyberbullying and online harassment.

Qualitative Research Topics in Daily Life

• The Impact of Social Media on Personal Relationships and Well-being.
• Exploring the Experience of Remote Work during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
• Perceptions of Sustainable Living Practices Among Urban Dwellers.
• Qualitative Analysis of Food Choices and Eating Habits in a Fast-paced Society.
• Understanding the Motivations and Barriers to Physical Activity Among Adults.

Qualitative Research Topics for Students

• Student Perceptions of Online Learning: Challenges and Opportunities.
• Peer Pressure and Decision-making Among Adolescents.
• Exploring the Transition from High School to College: Student Experiences.
• The Role of Extracurricular Activities in Student Development.
• Motivations and Challenges of Student Entrepreneurs in Starting Their Businesses.

Qualitative Research Topics for STEM Students

Here are some original qualitative research topic ideas for STEM students:

• Exploring the Ethical Implications of AI in Healthcare Decision-Making : Investigate healthcare professionals’ ethical perspectives and decision-making processes regarding the use of AI technologies in clinical settings.
• Gender Dynamics in STEM Education and Career Aspirations : Analyze how gender influences students’ educational experiences and career choices in STEM fields at the university level.
• Public Perception and Acceptance of Genome Editing Technologies : Conduct interviews and surveys to understand public attitudes and concerns about genome editing technologies such as CRISPR.
• Effectiveness of Online Interactive Tools in Teaching Middle School Mathematics : Explore how digital tools impact student learning and engagement in middle school mathematics education.
• Community Engagement and Impact of Renewable Energy Projects : Investigate community perceptions, concerns, and benefits related to local renewable energy initiatives like wind farms or solar installations.
• Challenges and Opportunities in Adopting Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management : Interview industry professionals to identify barriers and opportunities for integrating blockchain into supply chain operations.
• Decision-Making Processes in Software Development Methodologies : Explore how software engineers and development teams choose between different methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) and the factors influencing these decisions.
• Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Space Exploration : Analyze interviews with stakeholders from different cultural backgrounds to understand diverse perspectives on space exploration missions and collaborations.
• User Experience and Usability of Wearable Health Monitoring Devices : Conduct qualitative usability studies and interviews to evaluate user experiences with wearable health monitoring technologies.
• Impact of Virtual Reality on Engineering Design Processes : Study how virtual reality tools influence the design process, collaboration among engineering teams, and project outcomes.

These research topics for stem students qualitative to explore a wide range of social, ethical, cultural, and practical dimensions within their fields of study, providing opportunities for meaningful qualitative research.

Qualitative Research Titles Examples

• “Voices of Resilience: Narratives of Cancer Survivors.”
• “Exploring Cultural Identity Among Immigrant Communities.”
• “From Addiction to Recovery: Life Stories of Former Substance Abusers.”
• “Inside the Classroom: Student and Teacher Perspectives on Inclusive Education.”
• “Navigating Caregiving: Experiences of Family Members Caring for Alzheimer’s Patients.”

Qualitative Research Topics in Education

• Teacher Beliefs and Practices in Culturally Responsive Pedagogy.
• Qualitative Study of Bullying Incidents in Elementary Schools.
• Homeschooling: Parent and Student Perspectives on Alternative Education.
• Evaluating the Impact of Technology Integration in Classroom Learning.
• Parental Involvement in Early Childhood Education: A Qualitative Analysis.

Qualitative Research Topics for Nursing Students

• Patient Experiences of Chronic Illness Management.
• The Role of Empathy in Nursing Practice: A Qualitative Study.
• Qualitative Exploration of End-of-Life Care Decision-making.
• Perceptions of Nurse-Patient Communication in Intensive Care Units.
• Nursing Burnout: Causes, Consequences, and Coping Strategies.

Qualitative Research Topics for Human Studies

• Understanding the Impact of Climate Change on Vulnerable Communities.
• The Role of Social Support in Mental Health Recovery.
• Experiences of First-time Homebuyers in the Real Estate Market.
• Exploring the Motivations and Challenges of Volunteering.
• Narratives of Trauma Survivors: Coping and Resilience.

Qualitative Research Topics 2023

• Emerging Trends in Remote Work: Employee Perspectives.
• The Influence of Social Media on Political Engagement in the Post-COVID-19 Era.
• Qualitative Study of Mental Health Stigma Reduction Campaigns.
• Sustainability Practices in Business: Stakeholder Perceptions and Implementation.
• Narratives of Long COVID: The Lived Experience of Survivors.

Qualitative research methods such as interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and content analysis allow researchers to delve deeply into these topics, capturing rich and detailed data that can illuminate complexities, contradictions, and underlying meanings. These methods emphasize understanding context, exploring subjective experiences, and generating nuanced insights that can inform theory-building and contribute to addressing real-world challenges.

10 Major Differences Between Qualitative And Quantitative Research 

Here are the 10 best differences between qualitative and quantitative research:

Consequently, the selection of qualitative research topics is a critical phase in the journey of any researcher or student pursuing qualitative inquiry. The process of choosing the right topic involves a delicate balance of personal passion, research significance, feasibility, and ethical considerations. 

As we’ve discussed, it’s essential to choose a topic that not only resonates with your interests but also contributes to the broader academic or practical discourse. Qualitative research offers a unique lens through which to examine the complexities of human experiences, behaviors, and phenomena. 

It provides the opportunity to delve deep into the “how” and “why” of various subjects, offering nuanced insights that quantitative methods may not capture. Whether you are investigating personal narratives, cultural dynamics, educational practices, or social phenomena, qualitative research allows you to uncover the rich tapestry of human existence.

What is a good topic for qualitative research?

Self-esteem among people from low socioeconomic backgrounds. The advantages of online learning over physical learning.

What are the five topics of qualitative research?

These are biography, ethnography, phenomenology, grounded theory, and case study.

What is the easiest type of qualitative research?

Content analysis is possibly the most common and straightforward QDA method. At the simplest level, content analysis.

What are the 4 R’s of qualitative research?

Qualitative social research, whether conducted as ethnography, participant observation, or in situ interviewing, fares poorly when examined by the criteria of representativeness, reactivity, reliability, and replicability.

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131 Interesting Qualitative Research Topics For High Scoring Thesis

Qualitative research topics are undoubtedly not easy. While statistics enthralls some students, others don’t like the subject. That’s because qualitative assignments entail cognitive analysis, which complicates them. But apart from the hardships of completing the projects, selecting topics for qualitative research papers is also a challenge.

This article presents a list of 130-plus qualitative research topic ideas to help learners that struggle to get titles for their papers. It is helpful because many learners have difficulties picking titles that will make their essays impressive to educators. But before presenting the topics, this article defines qualitative research.

What Is Qualitative Research?

Qualitative research is an investigative and innovative abstract data analysis. When writing a qualitative research paper, a learner analyzes intangible data. Qualitative researchers code the data after or during collection. Therefore, having top-notch research topics is necessary for a first-class essay.

Knowing how to write a qualitative research paper is vital because it helps the student deliver a copy that provides a clear picture of an event or situation. A researcher can achieve this via practical experience, reliable reporting, and conversations. Gathering raw data is the initial step in qualitative research. A researcher can gather raw data by conducting reviews, observations, and surveys. Also, researchers can use creative methods to collect data.

Best Examples Of Qualitative Research Topics

Qualitative research covers many things. Here are examples of topics that learners can explore in their qualitative study.

• What causes stigma around some health challenges?
• Stigma facing the people living with disabilities- What is the cause?
• Can Pro Bono legal assistance improve the criminal justice system?
• How the less privileged can benefit from Pro Bono services
• The educational challenges facing rural children- Are there ways to help them?
• Child labor causes- How to mitigate the practice
• Substance and drugs- What are young people abusing more?
• How alcohol affects college students
• Can food insecurity interfere with children’s performance in school?
• Food banks intricacies- Understanding the challenge in low-income areas
• Free education- Does it have socioeconomic benefits?
• Culture and female harm- What’s the connection?
• The impact of social media on physical and social engagement among teens in urban areas
• Using medication to treat depression- What are the health benefits?
• Investigating peer educators’ efficiency in creating awareness of health and social issues
• Gender-based violence- What causes it in rural areas, and how does it affect victims?
• Sexual reproductive health challenges of child brides- Are there ways to control it?
• Investigating the causes of school dropout among teenagers
• How to address school dropout among young adults
• Investigating the deteriorating academic pursuit in Third-World countries
• Social activities- Do they have benefits for depressed people?
• Investigating cerebral palsy and the stigma that people associate with it.
• Living with disabilities- Are there social implications?
• The impact of ableism on disabled people
• Exploring the promotion and benefits of feminist values
• Why should society promote free education in all learning environments?
• What causes food insecurities among low-income earners?
• Food and housing insecurity- What are the root causes?
• What are the effects of displacement- Investigating the homeless people’s mental health

These are good examples of qualitative research topics. However, a student that picks a title in this category should research it extensively to impress the educator with their work.

Qualitative Nursing Research Topics

Professors ask students to write about qualitative topics when pursuing nursing studies. Here are issues to consider in this category.

• How does the nurse-patient relationship affect health outcomes?
• How can nurses deal with complex patients?
• How can nurses provide culturally competent care?
• How do personal beliefs affect nursing practice?
• What is the impact of spirituality on nursing care?
• How does the nurse’s role change when working with terminally ill patients?
• What challenges do nurses face when providing end-of-life care?
• How can nurses best support families whose members have serious illnesses?
• What are the unique challenges of caring for elderly patients?
• How does the nurse’s role change when working in a hospice setting?
• Health outreach programs- What are the most effective ways to execute them?
• Effective methods of curbing drug abuse
• Effective ways to help rape survivors
• How can nurses administer care to female genital mutilation victims?
• How to care for special needs individuals
• Anxiety and depression symptoms
• Methods of administering care to Dyslexia patients
• How to help individuals dealing with mental disorders
• Signs of Alzheimer’s disease in older people
• How to provide primary patient care

These are good qualitative research topics for students pursuing nursing studies. Nevertheless, learners must research any of these titles before writing their papers.

Qualitative Research Topics In Education

Most topics spring up from the education niche despite fitting other specifications. Here are examples of qualitative research topics that include the education niche.

• Are guidance and counseling essential in schools?
• How computer literacy affects education
• Why governments in developing schools should encourage adult education
• Autistic children’s education- Which learning style suits them?
• Is mental health education relevant in the modern school curriculum?
• Exploring the learning conditions for kids in third world countries
• Child education and food insecurity- What is the connection?
• The impact of virtual learning on high school students
• How does alcoholism affect a student and their education?
• Homeschooling- What are its advantages and disadvantages?
• How do teachers’ beliefs about intelligence affect their teaching?
• What is the teacher’s role in developing a student’s self-concept?
• Does race or ethnicity play a role in how teachers treat their students?
• What are the teachers’ experiences with teaching students with special needs?
• What methods do effective teachers use to motivate their students?
• What are the most effective ways to teach reading and writing?
• How does technology use affect how teachers teach, and students learn?
• What are the challenges faced by teachers in rural areas?
• What are the challenges faced by teachers in urban areas?
• How do charter schools differ from traditional public schools?

Many topics and issues in the education system allow learners to find subjects to investigate and cover in their papers quickly. And this is not an exhaustive qualitative research topic list in this field. Nevertheless, it covers the most exciting ideas to explore.

Qualitative Research Topics In Public Health

Educators ask students to write academic papers while studying the public health sector. And this provides insights into crucial and relevant aspects of this sector. Here are qualitative research topics examples in this category.

• How does the public health sector manage epidemics?
• The role of public health in disaster management
• Evaluating the effectiveness of public health campaigns
• An analysis of the factors that hinder effective public health delivery
• Access to healthcare: A study of rural and urban populations
• Health needs assessment of refugees
• Mental health support within the public health sector
• The role of technology in public health
• Understanding and addressing health disparities
• Sexual and reproductive health rights in the public health discourse
• How immunization benefits people in rural areas
• What causes water-borne diseases, and how can society mitigate them?
• Symptoms of high blood pressure among young people
• How antenatal care helps pregnant women
• How to boost breast cancer awareness

These are excellent qualitative research paper topics in the public health sector. Nevertheless, learners need sufficient time and resources to investigate their preferred titles in this category to write winning papers.

Qualitative Research Topics In Project Management

Project management writing focuses on ways to achieve results and goals while basing the achievement on the process. This subject covers planning, structuring, proffering, and controlling ways to execute plans to accomplish desired goals. Here are research topics for qualitative research in project management.

• How effective communication strategies can impact the outcome of a project
• How different leadership styles affect team productivity during a project
• The role of conflict management in ensuring successful project outcomes
• Gender differences in the perception and understanding of project risk
• The impact of organizational culture on a project’s likelihood of success
• How different project management methodologies affect its outcome
• The effect of stakeholder involvement on project success
• How to manage virtual teams effectively to ensure successful project outcomes
• What motivates project managers to achieve successful results?
• How can project managers create a positive work environment that leads to successful outcomes?
• What challenges do project managers face when trying to achieve successful outcomes?
• How can project management be used to achieve social change?
• What are the ethical implications of project management?
• What are the global impacts of project management?
• Ways to achieve sustainable development through project management

These are topics to explore in project management. Nevertheless, learners need adequate time to investigate their chosen titles and write winning essays.

Qualitative Research Topics In Political Science

Qualitative research can also cover political science. Investigating this field enables people to understand it better and can be broad. Here are sample titles to consider in for your scientific thesis .

• How do social media affect the way people engage with politics?
• What motivates people to vote?
• How does voting behavior change over time?
• What are the consequences of gerrymandering?
• How does campaign finance influence elections?
• Interest groups- What is their role in politics?
• How do the media cover politics?
• What are the effects of political scandals?
• How does public opinion influence policymakers?
• How feminism enhanced the American politics
• The adverse effects of misrepresentation
• The American democracy- A look into its dimensions
• Colorism, racism, and classism- How the American ideologies differ
• What causes an election crisis?
• Two-party system- What challenges does it face in America?
• Black women’s inclusion in the American politics
• Should America have a multi-party system?
• Why mass media matters in politics’ scrutiny and promotion

While political science is a broad field, these narrow topics help learners handle their research effectively. Pick any of these ideas to write a winning essay.

Topics For Ethnography Qualitative Research

Ethnographic research entails studying and paying attention to society and describing it. Here are topics to consider for a research paper in this field.

• Studying a subculture: Reasons people join and stay in gangs
• How does social media use vary by culture?
• An ethnographic study of a homeless shelter or soup kitchen
• Understanding the lives of sex workers through ethnography
• The impact of religion on family life
• How does parenting vary between cultures?
• How do children learn and socialize in different cultures?
• What is the effect of migration on family life?
• What are the experiences of refugees?- An explorative case study
• What is the impact of poverty on family life?
• How do people in different cultures understand and experience mental illness?
• What is the role of the family in other cultures?
• What are the end-of-life experiences and beliefs around death in different cultures?

This article has presented easy qualitative research topics. However, some need time and resources to investigate and write quality papers. Therefore, pick your paper title carefully to write an essay that will earn you an excellent grade.

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100 Qualitative Research topics to impress your teacher

Updated 27 Jun 2024

Qualitative research is a method of inquiry employed in various academic disciplines, traditionally in the social sciences, but also in market research and further contexts. This type of research is designed to provide a deep understanding of human behavior and the reasons that govern such behavior. Unlike quantitative research which focuses on numbers and statistical analysis, qualitative research delves into the experiences, perspectives, and narratives of individuals, aiming to comprehend the 'why' and 'how' of decision making.

The core of qualitative research lies in its ability to explore complex phenomena from a subjective angle. Researchers gather non-numerical data through methods such as interviews, focus groups, observations, and content analysis. This approach allows for a more detailed and rich exploration of issues, providing insights that are often missed by quantitative approaches. The aim is not to generalize the findings to the entire population, but to gain a more nuanced understanding of a particular group or issue.

Qualitative research is inherently adaptive, with study designs that are often flexible and evolving. Researchers in this field are not just passive collectors of information, but active participants in the construction of knowledge. They interpret the data through a process of coding and thematic analysis, often resulting in the identification of patterns or themes that provide a foundation for further research or action. This interpretive aspect of qualitative research underscores its unique contribution to evidence-based practice and policy-making, where the depth of understanding can lead to more effective interventions and strategies.

How to choose good qualitative research topics

Choosing a good qualitative research topic is a critical step in the research process, as it sets the direction for the entire project. A well-chosen topic not only sparks the researcher's passion but also meets the criteria of academic rigor and contributes new insights to the field. The first step in selecting a qualitative research topic is to identify an area of interest that is both significant and under-explored. This often involves extensive literature reviews to understand what has already been studied and where gaps in knowledge exist. The ideal topic should be one that can provide a fresh perspective or challenge existing assumptions within a specific domain.

When narrowing down potential topics, it's important to consider the feasibility of the research. This includes thinking about the accessibility of participants, the ethical implications of the study, and the resources available, such as time and funding. A good qualitative research topic should be specific enough to be manageable, yet broad enough to allow for the exploratory nature of qualitative inquiry. It should also be complex enough to warrant in-depth investigation, providing a rich field for data collection. For example, instead of a broad topic like "health," a more focused question could be "the experiences of community health workers in urban slums."

Additionally, a good qualitative research topic should align with the researcher's expertise and interests, as this will sustain motivation over the course of the study. It should also have a clear purpose, whether it's to inform policy, improve practice, contribute to theory, or address a social issue. The topic should lend itself to the development of research questions that are open-ended and flexible, allowing the researcher to explore the depth and complexity of the subject matter. Ultimately, the chosen topic should aim to add value to the field, whether by filling knowledge gaps, offering new theoretical insights, or providing practical solutions to real-world problems. Finding unique qualitative research topics can be challenging, but if you need assistance, there are professionals who write essays for money that can help you develop and refine your ideas.

List of qualitative research topics examples

Social and cultural issues:.

• The role of social media in shaping body image perceptions among teenagers.
• The impact of gentrification on long-term residents in urban neighborhoods.
• Cultural adaptation processes among immigrants in a new country.
• The influence of language on identity within bilingual communities.
• The social effects of income inequality in urban settings.
• The role of community organizations in fostering urban resilience.
• The cultural significance of traditional festivals in modern society.
• The impact of globalization on indigenous practices and rituals.
• The role of public art in community identity and cohesion.
• The effects of social policies on homeless populations.
• The changing dynamics of family structures in the 21st century.
• The role of religious institutions in contemporary social life.
• The impact of digital nomad lifestyles on local communities.
• The influence of pop culture on youth political engagement.
• The role of social movements in shaping policy change.
• The experiences of refugees integrating into different cultural contexts.
• The impact of eco-tourism on local cultural practices.
• The role of social entrepreneurship in addressing community issues.
• The cultural implications of language extinction.
• The social integration challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

Health and Well-being:

• The lived experiences of patients with chronic pain.
• The role of peer support in addiction recovery.
• Mental health challenges among university students.
• The impact of telemedicine on patient-doctor relationships.
• The experiences of families with children having rare diseases.
• The role of cultural beliefs in health-seeking behaviors.
• The impact of diet culture on eating habits and self-esteem.
• The experiences of healthcare workers during a public health crisis.
• The role of community health initiatives in improving urban health.
• The impact of social stigma on mental health treatment.
• The coping strategies of parents with children on the autism spectrum.
• The role of spirituality in end-of-life care.
• The experiences of women undergoing postpartum depression.
• The impact of workplace wellness programs on employee health.
• The challenges of implementing mental health programs in rural areas.
• The role of traditional medicine in contemporary healthcare.
• The experiences of transgender individuals in the healthcare system.
• The impact of health insurance policies on patient care.
• The role of art therapy in mental health rehabilitation.
• The experiences of veterans with PTSD in accessing healthcare services.

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• The impact of remote learning on student engagement.
• The experiences of first-generation college students.
• The role of technology in personalized learning.
• The impact of standardized testing on teaching practices.
• The experiences of minority students in predominantly white institutions.
• The role of extracurricular activities in student development.
• The challenges of bilingual education in public schools.
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on learning outcomes.
• The role of parental involvement in early childhood education.
• The experiences of students with disabilities in inclusive classrooms.
• The impact of school culture on bullying behaviors.
• The role of mentorship programs in professional development for teachers.
• The experiences of international students adapting to new educational systems.
• The impact of socio-economic status on educational attainment.
• The role of educational policies in addressing the achievement gap.
• The experiences of educators in high-needs schools.
• The impact of arts education on academic performance.
• The role of school leadership in fostering innovation.
• The experiences of LGBTQ+ students in school environments.
• The impact of community involvement in school governance.

Organizational and Work:

• The role of organizational culture in employee satisfaction.
• The impact of leadership styles on team performance.
• The experiences of women in male-dominated industries.
• The role of communication in organizational change.
• The impact of remote work on work-life balance.
• The experiences of employees during corporate restructuring.
• The role of employee engagement in retention rates.
• The impact of diversity and inclusion initiatives on company culture.
• The experiences of gig economy workers.
• The role of corporate social responsibility in consumer perception.
• The impact of workplace design on productivity.
• The role of feedback culture in employee development.
• The experiences of minority employees in career advancement.
• The impact of technology on job roles and skills.
• The role of work autonomy in job satisfaction.
• The experiences of returning to work after parental leave.
• The impact of job insecurity on mental health.
• The role of interdepartmental collaboration in project success.
• The experiences of whistleblowers in organizations.
• The impact of organizational ethics on employee behavior.

Media and Communication:

• The role of social media in shaping political discourse.
• The impact of digital advertising on consumer behavior.
• The experiences of journalists in conflict zones.
• The role of public relations in crisis management.
• The impact of streaming services on traditional television.
• The experiences of influencers on social media platforms.
• The role of media literacy in combating misinformation.
• The impact of communication technology on family relationships.
• The role of podcasts in contemporary media consumption.
• The experiences of consumers with targeted advertising.
• The role of media representation in shaping cultural identities.
• The impact of mobile technology on news consumption.
• The role of citizen journalism in social activism.
• The experiences of censorship among content creators.
• The impact of virtual reality on media experiences.
• The role of language in cross-cultural communication.
• The experiences of minority groups in media portrayals.
• The impact of social media on celebrity culture.
• The role of communication strategies in non-profit organizations.
• The experiences of disconnecting from social media.

Wrapping up

In conclusion, the breadth and depth of qualitative research topics across various thematic categories showcase the versatility and profound potential of qualitative inquiry. Whether it's exploring the intricate dynamics of social and cultural issues, delving into the personal narratives within health and well-being, understanding the evolving landscapes of education, examining the complexities of organizational structures, or decoding the influential power of media and communication, qualitative research offers a rich tapestry of perspectives that quantitative methods alone cannot provide. Each topic presents an opportunity to uncover new insights, challenge conventional wisdom, and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the world around us.

For researchers, students, academics, or professionals looking to embark on a qualitative research journey, the topics listed above serve as a springboard for inquiry. They are invitations to engage with the world in a meaningful way, to listen to stories yet untold, and to give voice to those often unheard. If any of these topics resonate with you, or if you're inspired to craft a research question that could illuminate the corners of human experience, we encourage you to take the next step. Dive into the literature, formulate your questions, and begin the fascinating process of qualitative exploration. Should you need guidance, support, or resources to embark on this journey, do not hesitate to reach out to academic mentors or professional services that can assist in shaping and refining your research endeavors. Your unique perspective is invaluable, and your contribution to the field awaits. Take that step, and let the journey of discovery begin.

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Top 60 Examples of Qualitative Research Topics

Table of contents

• 1.1 Align your research topic with your field of interest
• 1.2 Make sure you have all the right research on the topic
• 1.3 Follow your university guidelines!
• 2 List of qualitative research topics examples
• 3 Conclusion

Qualitative research refers to the intuitive and creative analysis of intangible information you can use for writing a top-class college paper. Due to interacting with the data before and after the collection, having the best qualitative research topics is paramount to writing a research assignment that stands above the rest.

These topics can involve gathering key data from the most relevant sources to your assignment topics and are fundamental to your effort to collect first-hand information. Some of the major fields where qualitative research is performed include:

• Anthropology
• Political science
• Business management
• Social science

The main goal of qualitative research is to help you understand the topic of your assignment by identifying the most important aspects of your topic and gathering enough information to provide an in-depth analysis of the topic at hand and provide the answers to all the related questions. This type of research aims to identify and understand the general lifestyle, issues, and problems to provide solutions to a global problem. Since doing all the research on your own can turn out to be quite daunting, you can always resort to hiring an  affordable research paper writing service  to get professional assistance.

Tips on how to choose good qualitative research topics

Writing a research paper or a college assignment with success solely depends on your ability to choose suitable qualitative research topics. It’s essential to carefully examine and explore the field with all the challenges before you start writing to identify the key factors and aspects of your assignment. Here are a few tips on how to do that to get good research paper ideas.

Align your research topic with your field of interest

Your assignment topic should be something that interests you deeply so that you can completely get into it and make the most out of your efforts. More importantly, your topic should allow you to develop your personal skills and learn new things.

Make sure you have all the right research on the topic

If you choose a topic that has little to no supporting research available, you’ll end up getting stuck. You must properly research the topic before you start writing. This research will also help you shortlist unrelated topics and narrow down your scope so that you can focus on the information that matches your exact needs.

Follow your university guidelines!

Consulting with your professors and going through the assessment guidelines is paramount to writing a top-class paper. Follow your university guidelines to make sure your efforts get approved by your supervisor.

List of qualitative research topics examples

• Long-term planning methods for better project management
• How to deal with issues during a project implementation program
• The best practices for dealing with tight project deadlines
• Why time management is essential for goal setting
• Flexibility in management: How to improve decision-making as a manager
• Top professional techniques for developing management skills
• Healthcare in low-income societies: How to achieve affordable medical care
• Dealing with a loss and the process of recovery
• How to make eco-friendly facemasks
• Preventing flu during cold seasons: The most effective preventative methods
• The importance of developing community-based sanitization programs
• The best practices for quitting alcohol and cigarettes
• Helping the young manage their obesity: The most effective obesity management strategies
• Promoting healthcare during COVID-19: Strategies for expanding the health sector
• Guide to collecting resources for building a centralized community
• How academic and social practices can help uplift a society
• Professional practices for building a one-on-one relationship between teachers and students
• The science behind consumer motivations and appraisals
• Reshaping the traditional form of virtual ethnography
• Are homeschooling programs as efficient as they should be?
• The importance of developing healthy eating habits
• The best strategies for getting ahead of the prospective market
• How to track the dynamics of real estate investments
• How effective are modern newsgathering technologies?
• Developing introvert behavior and its key effects
• Can sharing help an individual overcome addictions?
• Guide to creating a one-people community
• The most effective methods for dealing with cyberbullying
• The best way to bringing social equity to patriarchal societies
• How quarantine prevents the spread of infectious diseases
• The aging populations and the trends they follow
• The latest digital media trends
• Methods for mitigating communicable diseases
• How governments work on protocol observance
• Practices for preventing the spread of the coronavirus in crowded places
• Alleviating pain during childbirth
• Maternal healthcare in developing countries
• Can pop music change erratic youth behavior?
• The best therapies for recovering from brain surgery
• How alcohol changes normal behavior
• Depression management among school-going children
• Strategies for avoiding a viral disease
• Ways to influence the eating habits of children
• How and when to engage in sporting activities
• How low socioeconomic background impacts self-esteem
• The importance of parenting for shaping children’s morals
• The impact of poor market completion on supply and demand
• Do children under four years need preschool education?
• Single-gender schools vs. mixed schools
• How the world would benefit from the same education system
• How virtual reality helps reshape the world
• The hottest destinations for traveling at the moment
• How fast does the ozone layer deplete?
• Is it possible to predict natural disasters before they occur?
• The effects of digital marketing on modern businesses
• Physical learning vs. online learning
• How related are Windows and Apple products?
• Study cases of bullying in schools
• The effect of stress on human behavior
• Patient behavior and the influence of social processes

If you’re looking for the best way to choose some of the most suitable qualitative research paper topics for your college assignment, these 60 topics should help you get ahead of your task and write an engaging paper. All topics above are for your personal education and motivation. If you still need help with your assignment, our professional paper writing services are available 24/7.

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The Oxford Encyclopedia of Qualitative Research Methods in Education

The  Oxford  Encyclopedia of Qualitative Research Methods in Education  provides a diverse overview of the wide variety of qualitative approaches to studying education, including ethnography, interviews, narrative, and case studies. These methods facilitate detailed description, interpretation, and critique that, in education, enable an understanding of how different forms of learning take place, how relationships are implicated in learning, and how contexts enhance and/or impede learning. Articles in the Encyclopedia variously discuss the history of qualitative research methodology, the theoretical underpinnings of qualitative methods, and interdisciplinary applications of qualitative methods, as well as emerging topics that are particularly helpful for scholars, students, and practitioners alike. All of the articles appear online as part of the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Education .

Editor in Chief

George Noblit , University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Associate Editors

Dennis Beach, University of Gothenburg

Belmira Bueno, University of São Paulo

Letitia Fickel, University of Canterbury

Wanda Pillow, University of Utah

Meenakshi Thapan, University of Delhi

Printed from Oxford Research Encyclopedias, Education. Under the terms of the licence agreement, an individual user may print out a single article for personal use (for details see Privacy Policy and Legal Notice).

date: 24 August 2024

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Qualitative research in education : Background information

• Background information

• SAGE researchmethods SAGE Research Methods is a tool created to help researchers, faculty and students with their research projects. Users can explore methods concepts to help them design research projects, understand particular methods or identify a new method, conduct their research, and write up their findings. Since SAGE Research Methods focuses on methodology rather than disciplines, it can be used across the social sciences, health sciences, and other areas of research.
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• URL: https://guides.library.stanford.edu/qualitative_research_in_ed

Understanding Qualitative Research in Education

This is part of our Essential Guide to Coding Qualitative Data | Start a Free Trial | Free Qualitative Data Analysis Course

Qualitative research in education offers a way to explore student, parent, and educator experiences to paint a richer picture of our learning environments. 

Unlike quantitative research focusing on hard numbers and statistical analysis, qualitative research studies education through detailed, descriptive data. It goes beyond test scores and grades to provide rich insights into educational experiences, motivations, and outcomes.

This article covers all things qualitative educational research, including how this constructive approach helps improve our educational systems from the top down. We'll also show some examples of what qualitative research in education looks like in the field.

What Is Qualitative Research in Education?

Qualitative research in education involves studying the experiences and perspectives of individuals within educational settings. It includes various qualitative methods such as interviews , observations, and document analysis to gather rich, descriptive data. 

Let’s consider Eric, a student who is struggling in math class. Can we fully understand Eric’s struggle just by looking at his test results? Numbers (test scores, grades) may offer a glimpse into his situation but still leave us with the all-important “why” side of what’s going on.

Quantitative research shows Eric’s objective performance, but qualitative research lets us understand more context behind his experience and perspective. Maybe he lacks a strong foundation in a core concept that can explain his poor test results. Or perhaps his learning style doesn’t match the teaching approach. Qualitative research helps personalize these challenges. 

The “why” matters because it can reveal deeper insights into systemic issues, societal influences, and cultural factors impacting Eric (and others like him). Using a qualitative lens, you gain these deeper insights that help personalize learning and link theory to classroom practice.

Benefits of Qualitative Research in Education

So, when you need to understand the complex realities of educational environments, you can gain a lot from taking a qualitative approach to your research. Some key benefits include:

Uncovers Hidden Experiences: Qualitative research in education reveals the lived experiences of students like Eric, educators, and administrators within the system you are studying. By understanding these experiences, you can address the unique needs of these stakeholders, making education more personalized and effective.

Provides Context: Numbers can be misleading without context. Qualitative research exposes the factors influencing those numbers, painting a more complete picture of cause and effect. This context helps you understand the underlying reasons for student performance and develop more effective strategies.

Generates Detail-Rich Data: Using interviews, observations, and focus groups can provide detailed information about learning processes, classroom dynamics, and school culture. This rich data helps you see the bigger picture and make informed decisions.

Inform Effective Practices: Understanding the "why" behind educational challenges and successes can help you develop more effective teaching strategies. This approach ensures that your teaching methods are grounded in real-world experiences.

Empowers Stakeholders: By involving participants in the research process, qualitative research can empower educators, students, and families to have a voice in shaping their educational journey. This involvement fosters a sense of ownership and collaboration that can lead to better educational outcomes.

It's important to note that not every educational study requires qualitative research. Standardized tests and surveys play a role, but sometimes, you need to go beyond the numbers to understand the human stories behind the data. We'll circle back to qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research (combining them) later in this article.

Considerations for Qualitative Educational Research

While qualitative research offers many benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind when considering whether it is right for your research. For example, qualitative research is generally time-consuming because gathering and analyzing detailed data tends to require a lot of effort. 

However, there are ways to balance the effort needed to gain the rich, nuanced understanding that qualitative research can offer. Qualitative data analysis (QDA) tools like Delve make organizing, coding, and analyzing qualitative data easier. Delve helps you focus on gaining insights without being bogged down by the logistics of managing your data. 

Qualitative analysis doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Take delve's free online course. → get started here..

When To Use Qualitative Research in Education

Let’s look at how qualitative research might be applied in real-world educational settings. Here are some examples of where you might use this approach:

Understanding Student Engagement : A researcher might conduct interviews and classroom observations to explore how students like Eric and his classmates engage with a new curriculum. This could reveal areas where the curriculum needs to be adapted to cater to different learning styles.

Evaluating a New Teaching Method : Focus groups with teachers who implemented a new teaching method can provide insights into its effectiveness, challenges, and potential for improvement. These discussions can help identify what works well and what needs adjustment.

The School Culture Impact : Interviews with students, teachers, and parents can illuminate the school's culture and its impact on student well-being and academic performance. Understanding the experiences of Eric and his peers can highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the school environment.

These are just a few examples of when you might use a qualitative approach. The beauty of qualitative research is its adaptability to a wide range of educational questions and concerns.

Examples of Qualitative Research in Education

1. new lives of teachers (day, 2012).

Teachers need to manage a range of challenges and stresses in their professional lives to achieve and sustain a healthy state of well-being. In a study conducted by Christopher Day (2012) , the lives and experiences of teachers were explored to understand these challenges better. This research used narrative analysis, a qualitative method where researchers analyze stories and personal accounts to uncover deeper insights.

Method Used: Narrative Analysis

Day's research involved extensive semi-structured interviews with teachers to gather their stories and experiences. Through this narrative approach , the study highlighted how teachers navigate their professional lives, manage stress, and maintain their commitment to teaching despite various challenges. This method allowed for a detailed exploration of the personal and emotional aspects of teaching, offering a richer understanding of the factors that influence teacher well-being and effectiveness.

Impact and Findings

The findings from this study have implications for how educational institutions support teachers and address issues related to teacher retention and professional development. By understanding these teachers, policymakers and educators can create more supportive environments that promote teacher well-being and improve educational outcomes.

2. A Narrative Inquiry into Rural School Leadership in South Africa (Smit, 2017)

In a study conducted by Brigitt e Smit (2017) , the experiences of rural school leaders in South Africa were explored to understand their challenges. This research used narrative inquiry, a qualitative method in which researchers analyze stories and personal accounts to uncover deeper insights.

Method Used: Narrative Inquiry

Smit's research involved guided conversations and observations over five years with two school principals. By using narrative inquiry, the study captured the emotional and relational aspects of their leadership experiences, shedding light on how they navigate challenges such as poverty, hunger, and lack of support.

The findings revealed the intense emotional labor and relational leadership required to manage rural schools. Understanding these experiences can inform how educational policies and support systems are designed to assist rural school leaders better.

How To Do Qualitative Research For Education

You won’t find a one-size-fits-all approach to qualitative educational research. Depending on your specific research questions, a handful of qualitative data and methods are often used to gather the in-depth data required for this type of educational study. 

Common Qualitative Data Types

In traditional educational settings, qualitative data often includes:

Observations

Journal entries

Document analyses

Focus groups

In a remote learning environment, qualitative data can also cover:

Check-in records

Notes from students

Personal well-being surveys

Observations from online classes and virtual meetings

Typical Qualitative Methods in Education Research

Case Studies : One of the most common qualitative methods in education, case studies provide an in-depth look at a single instance or a small number of instances within a real-life context. If you’re studying a student with a specific learning disability or analyzing a new teaching method in a classroom, case studies can help. They reveal the intricate factors that influence learning experiences for a particular student or group, providing a deeper understanding of educational topics.

Ethnography : The value of being a fly on the wall! Ethnogr a phy involves immersing yourself in the educational setting, observing interactions, and participating in activities over a sustained period. This deep dive allows for a deeper understanding of the culture and dynamics within a school or classroom. Ethnography is particularly useful for exploring unspoken rules, traditions, and the overall "feel" of a learning environment.

Narrative Analysis :  This method involves analyzing existing documents and records, like student journals, historical school reports, or policy documents. Narrative analysis helps us understand how educational practices have evolved and how they shape current experiences. For example, you might analyze student essays written over a period of time to see how their views on a particular subject have changed.

Qualitative Content Analysis : Similar to narrative analysis, qualitative content analysis involves coding and interpreting textual data to identify patterns and themes. Educational researchers use document analyses to analyze materials like student essays, curriculum content, teaching materials, and policy documents. This method provides insights into participants' experiences within the educational system and explores how educational content is structured and conveyed, making it valuable for educators and policymakers.

Phenomenology : Interpretative phenomenological analysis begins with specific examples and uses them to develop broader theories. It focuses on understanding individuals' lived experiences from their own perspectives. Using a phenomenological research design , you might interview students about their experiences with math anxiety, aiming to capture the essence of that feeling and how it impacts their learning. This gives you a deeper understanding of their subjective experiences within educational settings.

Grounded Theory : This method is about generating theory from the data rather than starting with a pre-existing hypothesis. Researchers might begin with open-ended interviews with teachers about a particular challenge and then analyze the data to identify emerging themes and patterns. Grounded theory allows for the development of new theories based on the realities of educational practice.

These methods give you a deeper understanding of educational content and practices by uncovering underlying themes and patterns. This richer insight helps create more effective and inclusive educational environments, which can make a real difference in the lives of students.

Tips: Turning Qualitative Research into Educational Practice

Your research might not always solve a specific problem through social policy, but it can lay the groundwork for future studies and social policy changes. That is to say that even if your work isn’t directly integrated into practice today, it can still have a lasting impact in the future.

Here are some ways your qualitative research can be impactful:

Informing Professional Development : Your research might inform future professional programs for teachers. These programs can use your findings to create training grounded in real-world experiences and address the actual needs of educators and students.

Shaping Policy Making : Your research insights could eventually shape educational policies. Even if this doesn't happen immediately, your work can influence policies that address students' and teachers' real needs and experiences over time.

Collaborative Research : Work with educators and policymakers during your research process for on-the-ground feedback. The benefit of collaborative qualitative research is that your findings are more relevant and can be more easily applied in real-world settings.

By understanding these aspects of how your work fits into the larger conversation on education, you can maximize the potential impact of your qualitative research.

Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Approaches for Educational Research

Earlier, we pointed out that qualitative and quantitative methods have their place in educational research. While numbers can’t tell the whole story, they play an integral role in the puzzle. Tests and surveys reveal trends and patterns, giving you a snapshot of overall classroom performance—it's like seeing the big picture on a map.

Qualitative research zooms in and fills in the gaps. You learn directly from students and educators through interviews, observations, and focus groups. This is all part of understanding the "why" behind their challenges. It's how qualitative education researchers identify areas where teaching strategies need to be adjusted to meet their needs better.

There is also a benefit to using a mixed qualitative-quantitative approach to qualitative education research. Think of it like having a detailed map (quantitative data) and insightful field notes (qualitative insights). The map provides direction, while the field notes highlight potential obstacles and hidden paths with additional context along the way.

Example of Qualitative Quantitative Mixed Approaches to Educational Research

For example, a study on student achievement might use quantitative methods to measure test scores for Eric and his classmates. A qualitative method would help explore this group’s attitudes and experiences.

By blending quantitative and qualitative data, you would better understand what's working (and what's not) in their classrooms. This empowers you to offer data-driven suggestions that target student needs, fostering an environment with better educational outcomes.

Helpful Qualitative Education Journals and Publications

High-quality qualitative research journals are a great resource and idea generator for your own study. These journals provide a platform for sharing innovative methodologies and findings that can influence educational practice and policy. Here are some recommended journals to consider:

Educational Journals

Qualitative Inquiry ( https://journals.sagepub.com/home/qix ): Publishes a broad range of qualitative research in education, exploring themes like curriculum development, teacher education, and student experiences.

International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education ( https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/tqse20 ): Focuses on international perspectives in qualitative educational research, addressing issues of equity, inclusion, and social justice.

Educational Researcher ( https://www.aera.net/ ): While not exclusively qualitative, it publishes strong qualitative work on various educational topics, from classroom interactions to policy analysis.

ERIC ( https://eric.ed.gov/ ): The Education Resources Information Center is a comprehensive database that provides access to a vast range of education-related literature, including qualitative research studies.

Jump to Qualitative Research in Education .

General Qualitative Research Journals (with a focus on education)

Journal of Educational Ethnography ( https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/reae20 ): Dedicated to ethnographic research in education, exploring the cultural dynamics and lived experiences within educational settings.

Teachers College Record ( https://journals.sagepub.com/home/TCZ ): Covers a wide range of educational research, including qualitative approaches. Look for articles exploring issues like teacher identity, student engagement, and classroom discourse.

Additional Qualitative-Focused Journals

Discourse: Studies in the Cultural Politics of Education ( https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/cdis20 ): Explores the power dynamics and cultural influences shaping educational practices through qualitative methods.

Gender and Education ( https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/cgee20 ): Focuses on qualitative research related to gender and education, examining issues like gender equity, identity formation, and classroom experiences.

Urban Education ( https://journals.sagepub.com/home/uex ): Explores the complexities of urban education through qualitative research, addressing topics like race, poverty, and social mobility within educational institutions.

By learning from and contributing to these journals, you participate in the ongoing conversation about education and potentially influence future educational practices and policies.

However, keep in mind that more qualitative education journals exist, each with a specific focus. Review each journal's editorial interests to ensure your research aligns well with their mission and focus. 

Tools For Qualitative Research in Education

When it comes time to actually do qualitative research for education, Qualitative Data Analysis tools like Delve can simplify all facets of the research process. It organizes coding and data analysis, making it easier (and more efficient) for you to uncover patterns and themes. 

Whether you are conducting interviews , focus groups, or document analysis, Delve provides a user-friendly, web-based platform that supports the rigorous analysis required for high-quality qualitative research.

Why Choose Delve QDA Software?

Efficiency : Delve streamlines the coding process, saving you time and effort.

Collaboration : The platform supports collaborative research , allowing multiple researchers to work together seamlessly.

Insights : Delve's powerful analysis tools help researchers identify key themes and insights from their data.

Wrapping Up Education Research

Qualitative research in education helps us study the rich, complex realities of our educational settings. Going beyond the numbers to explore the lived realities of participants provides valuable insight into the inner workings of educational experiences and outcomes. You now have the tools to choose a qualitative approach for your educational research.

To simplify the qualitative analysis portion of your study, try Delve with a free 14-day trial

References:

Day, C. (2012). New Lives of Teachers . Teacher Education Quarterly , Winter 2012, 1-25.

Smit, B. (2017). A narrative inquiry into rural school leadership in South Africa . Qualitative Research in Education, 6 (1), 1-21. doi:10.17583/qre.2017.2276

Cite This Blog Post:

Delve, Ho, L., & Limpaecher, A. (2024b, July 08). Understanding Qualitative Research In Education. https://delvetool.com/blog/qualitative-research-education

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Qualitative Research Topics & Ideas For Students

Do you have difficulty finding a qualitative research title for your project? If you are, you need not worry because you are not alone. However, there are many unique qualitative titles you can explore for your research. You just need a few qualitative research title examples to get you started. Qualitative research is focused on data obtained through a researcher’s first-hand observations, natural setting recording, artifacts, case studies, documents, questionnaires, and interviews. The findings in qualitative research are usually non-numerical. Also, it is common in humanities and social sciences. This post provides over 100 qualitative research topics you can consider.

• The Best Qualitative Research Topics That Impress the Teacher

Exceptional Qualitative Research Topics In Social Science

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An excellent research topic will help you earn a good grade. Consider any example of a qualitative research title from the following options:

• The impacts of social media on physical social engagement in society
• The benefits of treating mental disorders with medication
• The effects of Gender-Based Violence on women’s social lives in rural areas
• The decline of academic pursuit in third-world countries
• Sexual workers: the stigma they experience
• How has the promotion of feminist values influenced workplaces?
• Free education: its impact in third-world countries
• What is the correlation between education and success?
• Ableism: its effects on disabled people in society
• Food insecurity in third-world nations

The topic of your research paper can influence how easily you can conduct your study and draw conclusions.

Here are fantastic examples of qualitative research titles:

• Female harm: how it is influenced by culture
• The socioeconomic impacts of free education
• The link between food insecurity and poor performance in schools
• Alcoholism among college students: a critical study
• How to mitigate child labor in our society
• The root causes of child labor in Latin America
• The stigma of living with transmissive medical conditions
• The root cause of the stigma of people living with disabilities
• How to identify depression in small children
• Signs of autism in kids below two years old

Choosing a qualitative research topic is not a task you should take lightly because it can influence your performance. Here are some noteworthy qualitative research titles examples:

• Basic patient care policies in developing nations
• The impacts of alcoholism on education
• Adult learning: what does it entail?
• Homeschooling: Is it the latest trend after the pandemic?
• Does computer literacy influence the quality of education kids enjoy?
• How to effectively teach students with learning disabilities
• The relationship between poor education systems and crime rates in third-world countries
• Student bullying: the psychological impacts
• Should high school students go through university preparedness programs?
• research writing in high schools: its significance

Are you looking for qualitative research topic examples to start your study? Below are some creative examples to consider:

• Remote tests: are they as effective as in-class tests?
• The value of social activities in academic institutions
• Why should healthcare be free in all countries?
• The implications of racist laws on society
• The reception of COVID-19 vaccines and treatments
• What is the difference between foreign policies in first-world and third-world nations?
• Racism and Colorism: what is the difference?
• Dissecting the causes of low voter turnouts in the 21 st century
• The challenges of social media on kid’s brain development
• The inclusion of black women in American politics and its impacts

When competing with several brilliant minds, a good research topic can do you greatly. The following qualitative research examples titles are a great place to start:

• Should school uniforms be discarded for high schoolers?
• The need for equal representation in global politics
• The implications of police brutality on politics
• The role of parental care in foster kids
• The distinction between Islamic values and Christian values
• The correlation between political instability and migration
• Sex trafficking and violence against women: what is the link?
• How can global governments eradicate homelessness?
• Fraternities and sororities: are they still relevant?
• The role of literature in promoting societal changes

Qualitative research is popular in the education field and other social sciences. Choose a qualitative research title example on the subject of education from the following list:

• Effectively introducing foreign languages in the high school curriculum
• How can teachers help students with disabilities improve their learning?
• The link between social activities and comprehension among students
• Research writing in high schools: is it necessary?
• How has virtual learning influenced teacher-student relationships?
• The implications of allowing smartphones in classes
• Should all schools introduce sign language lessons in their curriculum?
• Student loans: their impacts on black students
• The impacts of race on college acceptance rates
• Poverty and education: what is the link?
• Ethnic and socioeconomic causes of poor school attendance in developing worlds
• Various teaching methods and their efficiency
• Efficient teaching methods for children below two years
• Why do students perform better in humanities than in sciences?
• The difference between college acceptance and completion in most nations
• Remote learning in developing countries
• What are the best ways of approaching bullying in schools?
• How do teachers promote inequality among students?
• Does social class influence academic performance negatively or positively?
• How do teachers shape their students’ personalities?

Coming up with a qualitative research title can be hard because of the numerous subject areas and the issue of uniqueness. Therefore, we have prepared the following qualitative title examples for you:

• How to promote oral learning in classrooms
• Political instability in developing countries: its economic impacts
• The impacts of weather on social activities
• Boredom and poor-decision making: the connection
• Exploring the connection between attachment types and love languages
• Socioeconomic impacts of instability on a country
• How does social media impact the perception of reality
• Reality TV shows: are they a true reflection of reality?
• How culture applies to different age groups
• Is social media influencing the loss of cultural values?

You can base your research topic on a specific region or nation, like the Philippines. A sample qualitative research title can get you started. You can pick a sample qualitative research title from the ideas below:

• Why are so many Philippines residents migrating to America?
• The impact of politics on migration in the Philippines
• How has violence led to food insecurity in rural areas in the Philippines?
• The Philippine education system: an overview
• How cultural norms influence social activities in the Philippines
• Gender roles in the Philippines society
• How popular Filipino cultures have served as agents of social change in the nation
• The link between male dominance and GBV in the Philippines
• Barriers to clean hygiene in health centers in the Philippines
• The spread of COVID in rural areas in the Philippines

Most top performers in research subjects attribute their success to choosing the best title for qualitative research. Here are some qualitative research topics about humanities and social science to promote good performance:

• The impact of poor market rivalry on supply and demand
• The role of parents in shaping kids’ morals
• Is social media the root cause of poor societal morals?
• How does alcohol impact a person’s normal behavior?
• How often should adults engage in sporting activities?
• Children’s eating habits and their influences
• Low socioeconomic backgrounds and their impacts on self-esteem
• The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the world’s views on viral diseases
• How can school-going kids manage depression
• Causes of mental challenges among school-going kids

Finding a good topic for qualitative research is a critical task that requires a lot of thought and research. However, we have simplified the process with the following qualitative topic ideas:

• Pop music and erratic youth behavior: is there a link?
• How do public figures influence cultures?
• Ideas for improving healthcare in developing nations
• Possible solutions for alleviating the food crisis in developing nations
• New ways of mitigating viral diseases
• Social media trends among the elderly
• Quarantine as a mitigation approach for infectious diseases
• Promoting social justice in patriarchal societies
• Worrying trends among the young population
• Emerging marketing trends in 2023

Qualitative research for college and high school students helps improve reading, writing, and intellectual skills. Here are some qualitative research examples and topic ideas for students :

• How to detect and prevent natural disasters beforehand
• Can the whole world have the same education system?
• What is the most effective therapy for patients recuperating from brain surgery?
• Possible solutions for promoting ethical practices in telehealth
• Can addicts overcome addiction without therapy?
• The latest technology trends and their impacts?
• How can global governments promote mental health awareness?
• Have smartphones caused reduced attention spans among users?
• Sexual violence in rural areas
• The introduction of Islam in African nations

We Are Here for You

Qualitative research is an investigative analysis of intangible or inexact data, mostly non-numerical. The title of qualitative research you choose will guide your entire research process and influence its conclusions. Do you need a paper or an example of a research title qualitative topic? Our expert team is ready to write it for you.

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60+ Innovative Qualitative Research Topics for STEM Students

Explore compelling qualitative research topics for STEM students, delving into personal narratives, ethical dilemmas, and educational impacts across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

STEM disciplines traditionally focus on equations, experiments, and empirical evidence. Yet, the human dimension of these fields profoundly shapes their evolution and application.

Qualitative research thus becomes pivotal in unraveling the motivations behind scientific breakthroughs, examining personal stories, perspectives, and educational influences that mold STEM practices.

From uncovering the inspirations driving young scientists to navigating ethical quandaries in technological advancements, and exploring how science education impacts diverse communities, qualitative research offers a rich tapestry of insights into STEM’s human aspect.

This guide curates intriguing qualitative research topics that illuminate the personal narratives within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Embark on a journey to uncover the human stories behind STEM!

Table of Contents

Qualitative Research Topics for STEM Students PDF

Qualitative research topics for stem students.

Check out qualitative research topics for STEM students:-

City Birds: How Urban Growth Affects Wildlife

Project Idea: Explore how cities impact bird populations. Use birdwatching and community surveys to track species diversity in urban areas versus natural habitats.

Innovative Approach: Create a citizen science project where local residents and schools monitor bird populations in their neighborhoods using a mobile app.

Ethics in Animal Research: Balancing Science and Welfare

Project Idea: Investigate ethical dilemmas in animal research. Interview scientists and activists to understand perspectives on humane treatment and alternative methods.

Innovative Approach: Organize a debate or public forum where students role-play different stakeholders (scientists, ethicists, animal rights advocates) to discuss and propose solutions.

Healing Plants: Traditional Knowledge Meets Modern Science

Project Idea: Document traditional uses of medicinal plants. Interview healers and botanists to explore their knowledge and conservation efforts.

Innovative Approach: Create an interactive digital archive showcasing interviews, plant specimens , and stories from local communities about medicinal plants.

Community Conservation: Engaging Locals in Wildlife Protection

Project Idea: Study community perceptions of conservation efforts. Interview residents and conservationists to assess awareness and participation in local wildlife conservation projects.

Innovative Approach: Host a virtual reality (VR) experience where participants explore a simulated wildlife reserve, learning about conservation challenges and solutions.

Save the Bees: Investigating Pollinator Decline

Project Idea: Research factors contributing to pollinator decline. Analyze pesticide use and habitat loss impacts on bee populations through fieldwork and stakeholder interviews.

Innovative Approach: Develop an educational board game where players must balance farming practices with bee conservation efforts, raising awareness through interactive gameplay.

Chemical Safety at Home: What’s in Your Products?

Project Idea: Survey public attitudes towards chemical safety in household products. Analyze labeling and consumer preferences for eco-friendly alternatives.

Innovative Approach: Create an Instagram campaign where participants share photos and reviews of safe household products, promoting awareness and informed consumer choices.

Green Innovations: Sustainable Solutions for Small Businesses

Project Idea: Interview small business owners adopting green chemistry practices. Analyze case studies of successful eco-friendly startups and their impact on sustainability.

Innovative Approach: Organize a “Green Shark Tank” event where students pitch eco-friendly product ideas to local entrepreneurs and sustainability experts for feedback and support.

Waste Not, Want Not: Recycling Chemicals for a Cleaner Future

Project Idea: Investigate chemical waste recycling practices. Interview engineers and policymakers to understand challenges and innovations in recycling technologies.

Innovative Approach: Design a virtual reality experience where users explore a recycling plant, learning about chemical waste processes and environmental benefits.

Fun with Chemistry: Enhancing Education through Interactive Learning

Project Idea: Evaluate educational resources in chemistry. Interview teachers and students to assess the effectiveness of hands-on experiments and digital simulations.

Innovative Approach: Develop a mobile app featuring interactive chemistry tutorials and virtual labs, making learning engaging and accessible outside the classroom.

Ethical Chemistry: Ensuring Safety and Responsibility in Research

Project Idea: Explore ethical considerations in chemical research. Interview researchers to discuss issues like data integrity and public trust in scientific studies.

Innovative Approach: Host a podcast series where scientists share personal stories and ethical dilemmas encountered in their research, encouraging open dialogue and critical thinking.

Space Explorers Unite: Inspiring the Next Generation of Astronauts

Project Idea: Engage the public in space exploration. Host workshops where participants design and build model Mars rovers, learning about planetary exploration challenges.

Innovative Approach: Collaborate with local artists to create a mural depicting humanity’s journey into space, sparking curiosity and wonder in the community.

Power of the Future: Exploring Renewable Energy Solutions

Project Idea: Investigate public perceptions of renewable energy. Interview engineers and policymakers about solar and wind power adoption and community benefits.

Innovative Approach: Organize a renewable energy fair where students showcase DIY solar panel projects and energy-efficient designs, promoting sustainable practices in everyday life.

Quantum Quest: Discovering the World of Quantum Mechanics

Project Idea: Explore applications of quantum mechanics. Interview physicists and tech innovators to understand quantum computing and cryptography advancements.

Innovative Approach: Create an augmented reality (AR) experience where users interact with quantum particles, learning about their unique properties and potential applications.

Particle Pioneers: Ethical Challenges in Accelerating Discoveries

Project Idea: Discuss ethical dilemmas in particle physics. Host a mock UN summit where students negotiate international agreements on particle accelerator safety and collaboration.

Innovative Approach: Organize a live-streamed virtual tour of CERN, featuring interviews with physicists and behind-the-scenes footage of particle research, engaging global audiences in scientific exploration.

Physics in Everyday Life: From Curiosity to Practical Applications

Project Idea: Explore public understanding of scientific methods. Survey community attitudes towards physics concepts like energy conservation and climate change solutions.

Innovative Approach: Create a YouTube channel featuring physics experiments and explanations in everyday contexts, making complex concepts accessible and engaging for viewers of all ages.

Engineering

Virtual ventures: designing immersive experiences in virtual reality.

Project Idea: Develop user-friendly VR applications. Conduct user tests to improve interface design and user engagement in virtual environments for education and entertainment.

Innovative Approach: Collaborate with local museums to create VR exhibits where visitors explore historical landmarks or futuristic cities, blending technology with cultural heritage.

Green Cities, Bright Future: Innovating Sustainable Urban Solutions

Project Idea: Interview urban planners and engineers about green infrastructure. Analyze case studies of eco-friendly buildings and transportation projects promoting urban sustainability.

Innovative Approach: Partner with city officials to host a hackathon where students propose green tech solutions like smart traffic lights and energy-efficient public spaces, fostering creativity and civic engagement.

Medical Marvels: Exploring Ethics in Biomedical Engineering

Project Idea: Investigate ethical issues in medical technology. Interview biomedical engineers and healthcare professionals about patient privacy and ethical treatment in device development.

Innovative Approach: Create a podcast series featuring interviews with medical innovators discussing breakthroughs in prosthetics and bioengineering, inspiring ethical considerations in healthcare.

Engineering Education Evolution: Enhancing Learning through Innovation

Project Idea: Evaluate engineering education programs. Survey students and educators to identify effective teaching methods and technological tools for promoting hands-on learning and career readiness.

Innovative Approach: Launch a student-led engineering club focused on building sustainable solutions for local challenges, fostering collaboration and real-world problem-solving skills.

Robotics Revolution: From Factory Floors to Everyday Life

Project Idea: Interview robotics experts about automation’s impact. Analyze case studies of robotic applications in industries like manufacturing and healthcare, exploring technological advancements and societal benefits.

Innovative Approach: Organize a robotics expo where students showcase DIY robots and automation projects, demonstrating their practical applications in improving daily tasks and industry efficiency.

Computer Science

Cyber sleuths: protecting online privacy and security.

Project Idea: Investigate cybersecurity awareness. Conduct workshops and simulations to educate users about phishing scams and data protection strategies in digital environments.

Innovative Approach: Design an interactive mobile app where players solve cybersecurity puzzles and learn encryption techniques, promoting digital literacy and safe online practices.

Mobile Magic: Designing User-Centric Apps for Everyday Needs

Project Idea: Develop intuitive mobile applications. Conduct usability tests and gather feedback from diverse users to enhance app functionality and user experience.

Innovative Approach: Collaborate with local businesses to create an app promoting sustainable shopping habits or community events, integrating social features and real-time updates for users.

AI Ethics: Navigating the Moral Landscape of Machine Learning

Project Idea: Discuss ethical dilemmas in AI research. Host a virtual panel discussion where experts debate topics like bias in algorithms and AI’s impact on job markets and privacy.

Innovative Approach: Create an AI chatbot that educates users about ethical AI practices and prompts discussions on social media platforms, encouraging ethical considerations in technology use.

Digital Classrooms: Enhancing Learning through Online Platforms

Project Idea: Evaluate online learning tools. Survey students and educators to assess the effectiveness of digital resources like interactive tutorials and virtual labs in enhancing STEM education.

Innovative Approach: Develop a gamified learning platform where students collaborate on coding challenges and STEM projects, earning points and badges for problem-solving skills and teamwork.

Tech Transformation: Embracing Digital Disruption for a Better Tomorrow

Project Idea: Investigate public perceptions of digital transformation. Interview tech leaders and policymakers about innovations like smart cities and digital healthcare solutions.

Innovative Approach: Host a virtual reality tour of a futuristic city, showcasing sustainable technologies and smart infrastructure designs, inspiring communities to embrace digital advancements for a more connected future.

Mathematics

Math masters: exploring creative problem-solving techniques.

Project Idea: Engage students in math challenges. Organize math competitions or puzzle-solving events to promote teamwork and critical thinking in solving real-world problems.

Innovative Approach: Create an online platform where users solve daily math puzzles and earn rewards, fostering a community of math enthusiasts and lifelong learners.

Beauty in Numbers: Appreciating the Artistry of Mathematics

Project Idea: Explore mathematical beauty. Host an art exhibit featuring mathematical patterns and sculptures, educating visitors about symmetry and fractals in nature and art.

Innovative Approach: Develop an augmented reality app where users interact with virtual mathematical sculptures, exploring their aesthetic qualities and historical significance.

Math Ethics: Ensuring Integrity and Responsibility in Research

Project Idea: Discuss ethical issues in mathematical research. Host a webinar series where mathematicians and scholars debate topics like data privacy and intellectual property rights in mathematical discoveries.

Innovative Approach: Create a podcast series featuring interviews with mathematicians sharing stories of ethical challenges and breakthroughs in their research, promoting ethical awareness and academic integrity.

Learning Beyond Limits: Enhancing Mathematics Education

Project Idea: Evaluate math education strategies. Survey teachers and students about effective learning methods like interactive lessons and peer tutoring in improving math comprehension and engagement.

Innovative Approach: Develop a virtual classroom platform where students attend math workshops and practice sessions with AI tutors, receiving personalized feedback and progress reports.

Mathematics in Action: Solving Real-World Challenges with Numbers

Project Idea: Investigate math applications. Collaborate with engineers and scientists to analyze case studies of mathematical modeling in fields like climate science and financial forecasting.

Innovative Approach: Launch a YouTube channel featuring animated videos explaining mathematical concepts and their practical applications in everyday life and global issues.

Importance of qualitative research in STEM fields

STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) focus on data and experiments, but qualitative research adds crucial depth by:

Revealing Human Experiences

It explores motivations and challenges within STEM, like why students lose interest in science or how ethics affect engineering decisions.

Informing Inclusive Practices

By understanding diverse perspectives, it helps create inclusive environments in STEM, addressing issues like gender disparities in engineering.

Examining Societal Impacts

It studies public perceptions of technologies (e.g., AI) and ethical concerns in STEM, guiding responsible development.

Understanding the “Why” Behind Data

It complements quantitative research by explaining reasons behind trends, like declining interest in science among students.

Fueling Innovation

By focusing on human insights, it inspires new technologies and strategies to support future STEM leaders.

In conclusion, qualitative research in STEM enriches understanding by exploring human dimensions, ensuring advancements are ethical, inclusive, and impactful.

Benefits of conducting qualitative studies alongside quantitative approaches

There are several benefits to integrating qualitative studies with quantitative approaches in research, especially in STEM fields. Here are the key advantages:

Richer Understanding

Quantitative data provides “what” and “how much,” while qualitative research (interviews, focus groups) uncovers “why” and “how.” This combination offers a holistic view, revealing underlying factors behind trends like declining student interest in science.

Uncovering Hidden Meanings

Quantitative data can lack context. Qualitative research adds meaning by exploring motivations, challenges, and perspectives, helping to interpret quantitative results accurately.

Generating New Questions and Hypotheses

Quantitative studies identify trends, and qualitative research refines findings and generates new research questions. For instance, survey data on poor science teaching can be explored qualitatively to identify effective teaching methods.

Informing Intervention Strategies

Quantitative research quantifies problems, while qualitative insights guide interventions. For example, understanding student interests can shape more relevant science curricula.

Enhancing Generalizability

Quantitative findings are statistically generalizable, and qualitative research provides insights into specific experiences, helping to assess applicability across different contexts.

Understanding Qualitative Research in STEM

Qualitative research offers a unique perspective on the human aspects of STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), focusing on experiences and meanings rather than numbers. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

Characteristics

Methods: Uses interviews, focus groups, and observations.

Focus: Explores experiences, perceptions, and contexts.

Approach: Inductive, allowing themes to emerge naturally.

Comparison with Quantitative Research

Quantitative: Deals with measurable data and hypotheses.

Qualitative: Focuses on meanings and narratives.

Applications in STEM

Understanding Motivations: Explores why people choose STEM careers or public perceptions of new technologies.

Social Context: Examines how culture, gender, and background affect STEM participation.

Ethical Analysis: Studies societal impacts of technologies like AI and genetic engineering.

Educational Insights: Evaluates teaching methods and student experiences in STEM.

In summary, qualitative research complements quantitative methods by providing insights into the human dimensions of science and technology.

Choosing a Qualitative Research Topic for STEM Students

STEM students excel in numbers and equations, yet science is deeply intertwined with human experience. Qualitative research explores this intersection, uncovering the “why” and “how” behind scientific phenomena. Here’s how to choose an engaging topic:

Find Your Passion: Identify what excites you in STEM, like robotics or clean energy.

Explore Human Impact: Consider how your STEM interest connects with human behavior or societal impacts. For instance, public views on robots in healthcare.

Identify Gaps: Look for unexplored areas in STEM education or technology development.

Topic Ideas

Motivations and challenges.

What drives students into STEM careers?

Challenges faced by minorities in STEM fields.

Learning and Engagement

Impact of teaching methods on student interest.

Strategies for scientific literacy in diverse communities.

Societal Impact

Ethical influences on AI development.

Bridging the digital divide for equitable technology access.

Focus & Feasibility: Choose a specific yet manageable topic.

Data Collection: Plan interviews, focus groups, or observations.

Ethics: Respect participant privacy and consent.

Selecting a compelling topic in qualitative research can offer valuable insights into STEM’s evolving landscape.

Qualitative research helps STEM students explore how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics connect with people’s lives and society.

By studying experiences and stories, students gain a deeper understanding of ethics and societal impacts. This not only boosts their research skills but also prepares them to innovate thoughtfully for a more inclusive future in STEM.

Remember, choose a topic that truly interests you and sparks curiosity—something that can uncover meaningful insights!

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Educational Research Basics by Del Siegle

Qualitative research.

Although researchers in anthropology and sociology have used the approach known as qualitative research  for a century, the term was not used in the social sciences until the late 1960s. The term qualitative research is used as an umbrella term to refer to several research strategies. Five common types of qualitative research are grounded theory , ethnographic , narrative research , case studies , and phenomenology.

It is unfair to judge qualitative research by a quantitative research paradigm, just as it is unfair to judge quantitative research from the qualitative research paradigm .

“Qualitative researchers seek to make sense of personal stories and the ways in which they intersect” (Glesne & Peshkin, 1992). As one qualitative researcher noted, “I knew that I was not at home in the world of numbers long before I realized that I was at home in the world of words.”

The data collected in qualitative research has been termed “soft”, “that is, rich in description of people, places, and conversations, and not easily handled by statistical procedures.” Researchers do not approach their research with specific questions to answer or hypotheses to test. They are concerned with understanding behavior from the subject’s own frame of reference. Qualitative researcher believe that “multiple ways of interpreting experiences are available to each of us through interacting with others, and that it is the meaning of our experiences that constitutes reality. Reality, consequently,  is ‘socially constructed'” (Bogdan & Biklen, 1992).

Data is usually collected through sustained contact with people in the settings where they normally spend their time. Participant observations and in-depth interviewing are the two most common ways to collect data. “The researcher enters the world of the people he or she plans to study, gets to know, be known, and trusted by them, and systematically keeps a detailed written record of what is heard and observed. This material is supplemented by other data such as [artifacts], school memos and records, newspaper articles, and photographs” (Bogdan & Biklen, 1992).

Rather than test theories, qualitative researchers often inductively analyze their data and develop theories through a process that Strauss called ” developing grounded theory “. They use purposive sampling to select the people they study. Subjects are selected because of who they are and what they know, rather than by chance.

Some key terms:

Access to a group is often made possible by a gate keeper . The gate keeper is the person who helps you gain access to the people you wish to study. In a school setting it might be a principal.

Most qualitative studies involve at least one key informant . The key informant knows the inside scoop and can point you to other people who have valuable information. The “key informant” is not necessarily the same as the gate keeper. A custodian might be a good key informant to understanding faculty interactions. The process of one subject recommending that you talk with another subject is called “ snowballing .”

Qualitative researchers use rich-thick description when they write their research reports. Unlike quantitative research where the researcher wished to generalize his or her findings beyond the sample from whom the data was drawn, qualitative researcher provide rich-thick descriptions for their readers and let their readers determine if the situation described in the qualitative study applies to the reader’s situation. Qualitative researchers do not use the terms validity and reliability. Instead they are concerned about the trustworthiness of their research.

Qualitative researchers often begin their interviews with grand tour questions . Grand tour questions are open ended questions that allow the interviewee to set the direction of the interview. The interviewer then follows the leads that the interviewee provides. The interviewer can always return to his or her preplanned interview questions after the leads have been followed.

Qualitative researchers continue to collect data until they reach a point of data saturation . Data saturation occurs when the researcher is no longer hearing or seeing new information. Unlike quantitative researchers who wait until the end of the study to analyze their data, qualitative researcher analyze their data throughout their study.

Note:   It is beyond the scope of this course to provide an extensive overview of qualitative research. Our purpose is to make you aware of this research option, and hopefully help you develop an appreciation of it. Qualitative research has become a popular research procedure in education.

Del Siegle, PhD [email protected] www.delsiegle.info

Qualitative Research Questions: Gain Powerful Insights + 25 Examples

We review the basics of qualitative research questions, including their key components, how to craft them effectively, & 25 example questions.

Einstein was many things—a physicist, a philosopher, and, undoubtedly, a mastermind. He also had an incredible way with words. His quote, "Everything that can be counted does not necessarily count; everything that counts cannot necessarily be counted," is particularly poignant when it comes to research. 

Some inquiries call for a quantitative approach, for counting and measuring data in order to arrive at general conclusions. Other investigations, like qualitative research, rely on deep exploration and understanding of individual cases in order to develop a greater understanding of the whole. That’s what we’re going to focus on today.

Qualitative research questions focus on the "how" and "why" of things, rather than the "what". They ask about people's experiences and perceptions , and can be used to explore a wide range of topics.

The following article will discuss the basics of qualitative research questions, including their key components, and how to craft them effectively. You'll also find 25 examples of effective qualitative research questions you can use as inspiration for your own studies.

Let’s get started!

What are qualitative research questions, and when are they used?

When researchers set out to conduct a study on a certain topic, their research is chiefly directed by an overarching question . This question provides focus for the study and helps determine what kind of data will be collected.

By starting with a question, we gain parameters and objectives for our line of research. What are we studying? For what purpose? How will we know when we’ve achieved our goals?

Of course, some of these questions can be described as quantitative in nature. When a research question is quantitative, it usually seeks to measure or calculate something in a systematic way.

For example:

• How many people in our town use the library?
• What is the average income of families in our city?
• How much does the average person weigh?

Other research questions, however—and the ones we will be focusing on in this article—are qualitative in nature. Qualitative research questions are open-ended and seek to explore a given topic in-depth.

According to the Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry , “Qualitative research aims to address questions concerned with developing an understanding of the meaning and experience dimensions of humans’ lives and social worlds.”

This type of research can be used to gain a better understanding of people’s thoughts, feelings and experiences by “addressing questions beyond ‘what works’, towards ‘what works for whom when, how and why, and focusing on intervention improvement rather than accreditation,” states one paper in Neurological Research and Practice .

Qualitative questions often produce rich data that can help researchers develop hypotheses for further quantitative study.

• What are people’s thoughts on the new library?
• How does it feel to be a first-generation student at our school?
• How do people feel about the changes taking place in our town?

As stated by a paper in Human Reproduction , “...‘qualitative’ methods are used to answer questions about experience, meaning, and perspective, most often from the standpoint of the participant. These data are usually not amenable to counting or measuring.”

Both quantitative and qualitative questions have their uses; in fact, they often complement each other. A well-designed research study will include a mix of both types of questions in order to gain a fuller understanding of the topic at hand.

If you would like to recruit unlimited participants for qualitative research for free and only pay for the interview you conduct, try using Respondent  today. 

Crafting qualitative research questions for powerful insights

Now that we have a basic understanding of what qualitative research questions are and when they are used, let’s take a look at how you can begin crafting your own.

According to a study in the International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education, there is a certain process researchers should follow when crafting their questions, which we’ll explore in more depth.

1. Beginning the process 

Start with a point of interest or curiosity, and pose a draft question or ‘self-question’. What do you want to know about the topic at hand? What is your specific curiosity? You may find it helpful to begin by writing several questions.

For example, if you’re interested in understanding how your customer base feels about a recent change to your product, you might ask: 

• What made you decide to try the new product?
• How do you feel about the change?
• What do you think of the new design/functionality?
• What benefits do you see in the change?

2. Create one overarching, guiding question 

At this point, narrow down the draft questions into one specific question. “Sometimes, these broader research questions are not stated as questions, but rather as goals for the study.”

As an example of this, you might narrow down these three questions: 

into the following question: 

• What are our customers’ thoughts on the recent change to our product?

3. Theoretical framing 

As you read the relevant literature and apply theory to your research, the question should be altered to achieve better outcomes. Experts agree that pursuing a qualitative line of inquiry should open up the possibility for questioning your original theories and altering the conceptual framework with which the research began.

If we continue with the current example, it’s possible you may uncover new data that informs your research and changes your question. For instance, you may discover that customers’ feelings about the change are not just a reaction to the change itself, but also to how it was implemented. In this case, your question would need to reflect this new information: 

• How did customers react to the process of the change, as well as the change itself?

4. Ethical considerations 

A study in the International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education stresses that ethics are “a central issue when a researcher proposes to study the lives of others, especially marginalized populations.” Consider how your question or inquiry will affect the people it relates to—their lives and their safety. Shape your question to avoid physical, emotional, or mental upset for the focus group.

In analyzing your question from this perspective, if you feel that it may cause harm, you should consider changing the question or ending your research project. Perhaps you’ve discovered that your question encourages harmful or invasive questioning, in which case you should reformulate it.

5. Writing the question 

The actual process of writing the question comes only after considering the above points. The purpose of crafting your research questions is to delve into what your study is specifically about” Remember that qualitative research questions are not trying to find the cause of an effect, but rather to explore the effect itself.

Your questions should be clear, concise, and understandable to those outside of your field. In addition, they should generate rich data. The questions you choose will also depend on the type of research you are conducting: 

• If you’re doing a phenomenological study, your questions might be open-ended, in order to allow participants to share their experiences in their own words.
• If you’re doing a grounded-theory study, your questions might be focused on generating a list of categories or themes.
• If you’re doing ethnography, your questions might be about understanding the culture you’re studying.

Whenyou have well-written questions, it is much easier to develop your research design and collect data that accurately reflects your inquiry.

In writing your questions, it may help you to refer to this simple flowchart process for constructing questions:

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25 examples of expertly crafted qualitative research questions

It's easy enough to cover the theory of writing a qualitative research question, but sometimes it's best if you can see the process in practice. In this section, we'll list 25 examples of B2B and B2C-related qualitative questions.

Let's begin with five questions. We'll show you the question, explain why it's considered qualitative, and then give you an example of how it can be used in research.

1. What is the customer's perception of our company's brand?

Qualitative research questions are often open-ended and invite respondents to share their thoughts and feelings on a subject. This question is qualitative because it seeks customer feedback on the company's brand. 

This question can be used in research to understand how customers feel about the company's branding, what they like and don't like about it, and whether they would recommend it to others.

2. Why do customers buy our product?

This question is also qualitative because it seeks to understand the customer's motivations for purchasing a product. It can be used in research to identify the reasons  customers buy a certain product, what needs or desires the product fulfills for them, and how they feel about the purchase after using the product.

3. How do our customers interact with our products?

Again, this question is qualitative because it seeks to understand customer behavior. In this case, it can be used in research to see how customers use the product, how they interact with it, and what emotions or thoughts the product evokes in them.

4. What are our customers' biggest frustrations with our products?

By seeking to understand customer frustrations, this question is qualitative and can provide valuable insights. It can be used in research to help identify areas in which the company needs to make improvements with its products.

5. How do our customers feel about our customer service?

Rather than asking why customers like or dislike something, this question asks how they feel. This qualitative question can provide insights into customer satisfaction or dissatisfaction with a company. 

This type of question can be used in research to understand what customers think of the company's customer service and whether they feel it meets their needs.

20 more examples to refer to when writing your question

Now that you’re aware of what makes certain questions qualitative, let's move into 20 more examples of qualitative research questions:

• How do your customers react when updates are made to your app interface?
• How do customers feel when they complete their purchase through your ecommerce site?
• What are your customers' main frustrations with your service?
• How do people feel about the quality of your products compared to those of your competitors?
• What motivates customers to refer their friends and family members to your product or service?
• What are the main benefits your customers receive from using your product or service?
• How do people feel when they finish a purchase on your website?
• What are the main motivations behind customer loyalty to your brand?
• How does your app make people feel emotionally?
• For younger generations using your app, how does it make them feel about themselves?
• What reputation do people associate with your brand?
• How inclusive do people find your app?
• In what ways are your customers' experiences unique to them?
• What are the main areas of improvement your customers would like to see in your product or service?
• How do people feel about their interactions with your tech team?
• What are the top five reasons people use your online marketplace?
• How does using your app make people feel in terms of connectedness?
• What emotions do people experience when they're using your product or service?
• Aside from the features of your product, what else about it attracts customers?
• How does your company culture make people feel?

As you can see, these kinds of questions are completely open-ended. In a way, they allow the research and discoveries made along the way to direct the research. The questions are merely a starting point from which to explore.

This video offers tips on how to write good qualitative research questions, produced by Qualitative Research Expert, Kimberly Baker.

Wrap-up: crafting your own qualitative research questions.

Over the course of this article, we've explored what qualitative research questions are, why they matter, and how they should be written. Hopefully you now have a clear understanding of how to craft your own.

Remember, qualitative research questions should always be designed to explore a certain experience or phenomena in-depth, in order to generate powerful insights. As you write your questions, be sure to keep the following in mind:

• Are you being inclusive of all relevant perspectives?
• Are your questions specific enough to generate clear answers?
• Will your questions allow for an in-depth exploration of the topic at hand?
• Do the questions reflect your research goals and objectives?

If you can answer "yes" to all of the questions above, and you've followed the tips for writing qualitative research questions we shared in this article, then you're well on your way to crafting powerful queries that will yield valuable insights.

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Asking the right questions in the right way is the key to research success. That’s true for not just the discussion guide but for every step of a research project. Following are 100+ questions that will take you from defining your research objective through  screening and participant discussions.

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210 Qualitative Research Topics for Students To Consider

Table of Contents

Usually, while pursuing a course, you will be either asked to conduct qualitative or quantitative research and submit a detailed thesis or dissertation on a particular topic relevant to your subject or university guidelines. But no matter whether it is quantitative or qualitative research, a good topic is needed the most for academic paper preparation. In case, you are looking for the best qualitative research topics, then this blog will be more helpful to you. Here, we have presented an overview of qualitative research along with a list of 200+ unique qualitative research paper topics and ideas on different subjects.

Explore this blog to get an amazing idea.

What is a Qualitative Research?

Qualitative research is a type of research that involves non-numerical data collection and analysis for the understanding of certain concepts, experiences, or opinions. The ultimate aim of qualitative research is to get a deep understanding of an event or a situation through firsthand experience, reliable reporting, and quotations from actual conversations. Moreover, to collect raw data for your research process, you can conduct surveys, observations, interviews, or implement any other innovative methods on your topic of study.

Qualitative Research Topics and Ideas List

As said earlier, for the preparation of a qualitative research paper, a good topic is essential. In case, you are confused about what topic to choose for your qualitative research paper, feel free to go through the list of 200+ ideas shared below and pick any topic that is convenient for you to perform qualitative research and write about.

Educational Qualitative Research Topics

• Food insecurity and child education
• Understanding adult learning
• The efficient learning style for autistic children
• The importance of computer literacy
• The importance of mental health education in the school curriculum
• The effects of alcoholism on education
• How does virtual learning affect high school students?
• Disadvantages of homeschooling
• The need to encourage adult education
• The impacts of computer literacy on education

Extra Qualitative Research Topics on Education

• Significance of school uniform to learning
• The importance of guidance and counseling in schools
• The impacts of the poor educational system
• Psychological impacts of student bullying
• The importance of research writing in schools
• Easy ways to master foreign languages for students in high school.
• The importance of social activities in schools
• How do smartphones affect students’ academic performance in the academic system?
• How to teach and improve the learning abilities of ADHD students
• The negative impacts of student loans
• What is the level of academic preparedness of university students?
• Ethnic and socioeconomic reasons for poor school attendance in developing countries
• Discuss the role of teachers in multicultural education.
• How to improve oral learning in classrooms
• The importance of reading to preschoolers
• The importance of research writing in schools.
• The effects of alcoholism on education.
• Disadvantages of homeschooling.
• Discuss the essentialities of prayers in school

Ethnography Qualitative Research Paper Topics

• Discuss the challenges transgender people undergo within and outside the LGBTQ+ community.
• The relationship that exists between political instability and migration
• Evaluating the role of parental care and the lack of it thereof in the lives of some foster kids
• Analyze the socioeconomic impacts of instability on a nation.
• How does sexual violence in rural areas affect the psychological well-being of the women and girls in such a locality?
• An insight into the primary causes of the swift migration happening from Africa to Europe.
• Explore the link between violence against women and sex trafficking.
• An overview of the rise of oral literature study in literature.
• How do social media distort the perception of reality?
• Outline some of the challenges of Muslims in Africa.
• Understanding the effects of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in rural areas and how this negatively impacts women in such areas
• Benefits of engaging in social activities for depressed people and those struggling with certain mental health challenges
• Displacement and its accompanying effects: a look into the mental health of homeless people
• How culture contributes to female harm in the society

A Few More Qualitative Research Ideas on Ethnography

• The impacts of Westernization on human perception.
• How does male dominance breed male violence?
• How does literature contribute to changing the world?
• Understanding the effects of female genitalia mutilation in girls
• The importance of books in the lives of children in rural areas.
• How does violence breed housing and food insecurity?
• The role of the smartphone in our deteriorating attention span
• Discuss the leniency of the practice of Islam in foreign spaces.
• A study into the ways through which government enables homelessness
• A study into the importance of fraternities and sororities.
• The role of capitalism in generating food insecurity
• The place of social and academic practices in uplifting a society
• Rethinking consumer appraisals and motivations
• Transforming virtual ethnography into a modernized form.
• Observing a group of children playing.
• Observing employees in a corporate office.
• Observing medical personnel in a high-volume hospital.
• Observing an Indigenous village
• What are the long-term planning methods for efficient project management?
• Why there is a huge significance of time management for the setting of goals?
• Evaluating the levels of nursing professionals’ satisfaction in private hospitals in the US.
• Long-term planning methods for better project management.
• How to deal with issues during a project implementation program.

Qualitative Project Management Research Topics

• The impacts of financial management in the country and how it benefits citizens.
• The root causes of the lack of medical insurance and possible ways to curb it.
• Dealing with a backlash during a project implementation program.
• The importance of developing healthy customer-client relationships
• Foreign policy and its impact on developing industrial complexes.
• How to ensure effective budget planning
• Why managers should be flexible and apt in their decisions
• The role of strategy in enhancing business management.
• The efficient ways of regulating revenue distribution.
• Various means of relieving pressure for tight project deadlines.
• Analysis of the cost-effectiveness of manufacturing learning centers in urban areas.
• An investigation into the current cost of living in society and how this is propagated by capitalism.
• Design process and management of geolocators.
• The assessment of the contributing factors that lead to failed healthcare systems in rural areas
• The need to create a more inclusive healthcare system
• Plausible ways through which food insecurity can be handled within a given society.
• Design a system for building an online regulated parking system.
• How to set up an operation pest control activity in a society
• The benefits of building communication masts in rural areas
• Understanding the essence of time management in goal setting
• The best way to carry out the facility life cycle costing.
• The contemporary approaches used in project management.

Nursing Qualitative Research Paper Topics

• How do social processes influence patient behavior?
• How to identify Alzheimer’s in older patients
• Basics of patient care
• The efficacy of a particular medication to a patient
• Unique attributes of a culture that determines a patient’s success rate
• The feminist empiricism perspective of the nursing profession
• How to help patients with mental disorders
• How nurses can handle cardiovascular challenges
• Difference between workloads of ICU nurses and OR nurses
• Environmental factors that necessitate quicker patient recover

Read more: Great Nursing Research Topics for Impressive Content

Additional Qualitative Research Topics on Nursing

• Understanding how to deal with pregnant women and emergencies
• Pros & cons of Nurses’ drug prescription
• The effective ways to carry out health outreach programs
• How to take care of the elderly
• How to assist rape survivors
• Bipolar symptoms in young adults
• The role of nurses and healthcare corporations
• The benefits of immunization in rural areas
• Care for hypertensive patients with diabetes
• Why are compassion and sensitivity important for nurses?
• Patient care in psychiatric units
• First aid treatments for gun victims
• Intensive care for visually and verbally impaired patients
• Signs of Depression and anxiety in patients
• How to curb drug abuse

Qualitative Research Topics on Political Science

• Racism as a dividing factor in America
• Understanding neoliberalism and how it impacts our activities in the society
• The negative impacts of peace war in affected countries
• Dissect the causes of the election crisis
• The negative impacts of misrepresentation
• The role of feminism in enhancing American politics
• The need for a free polling system to encourage free and fair voting practices
• The role of mass media in promoting and scrutinizing politics
• The distinction between Liberalism and Conservatism and the places where they merge
• Segregation and racist laws
• The effects of capitalism on America’s health system.
• The abortion regulation bill and its effects
• Address Police Brutality in America
• Discuss the effects of American incarceration.
• The inclusion of Black women in American politics.

Qualitative Research Paper Topics on Public Health

• Preventative methods for flu during cold seasons
• Ideas for quitting cigarettes and alcohol
• How to achieve affordable healthcare in low-income societies
• Ways to create awareness about breast cancer
• Programs for community-based sanitization
• Techniques of making eco-friendly facemasks
• Effective obesity management strategies for the young
• Causes of malnutrition in young children
• The need to properly manage the source of our waste products disposal
• Poorly maintained public hospitals and their effects
• The difference between an epidemic and a pandemic
• How to properly manage to live with diabetes type II
• Barriers to clean hygiene in health centers
• The importance of safe menstrual care for girls
• Factors generating health issues in pregnant women
• Understanding the health challenges of the lack of drinkable water in a community
• The importance of post-natal to nursing mothers
• The role of finance in propagating an inclusive and efficient healthcare system.
• Control of the prevalence of drug and substance abuse
• The benefits of exercise to obese people

Best Qualitative Research Ideas

• The advantages of online learning over physical learning
• Can we detect and prevent natural disasters before they occur?
• How often should one engage in sporting activities?
• How have businesses transitioned into online digital marketing?
• The influence of pop music on erratic youth behavior
• Is it possible to have the same education system throughout the whole world?
• The impact of unhealthy market completion on supply and demand
• Evaluate the performance of mixed schools over single-gender schools.
• The effects of developing introverted behavior
• Self-esteem among people from low socioeconomic backgrounds
• Management of depression among school-going children
• Approaches to improving maternal healthcare in developing countries
• Effective strategies that can help curb the problem of cyberbullying
• Worrying trends among the aging population
• The latest newsgathering technologies and their effectiveness
• Emerging trends in digital media
• Is preschool education necessary for children under the age of four years?
• Overcoming addictions through sharing with others
• Understanding the key roles of healthy eating habits
• Working government policies on protocol observance

Read more: Excellent Case Study Topics for College Students to Think About

Trending Qualitative Research Paper Topics

• The influence of pop music on erratic youth behavior.
• How does ableism affect disabled people in our society?
• Understanding the stigma of living with disabilities
• Discuss the rate at which the ozone layer is depleting.
• How virtual reality worlds are transforming society
• Understanding the effects of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in rural areas
• Benefits of Pro Bono services to the less privileged
• Understanding the intricacies of food banks in low-income neighborhoods
• How culture contributes to female harm in society?
• Causes of the stigma that surrounds certain health challenges
• New strategies to reduce the spread of infectious illnesses
• Explain how startup companies use digital marketing in their operations.
• Trends among the aging population that are concerning
• Quarantine’s significance in the spread of infectious illnesses
• How may patriarchal societies advance social equity?

Miscellaneous Qualitative Research Paper Ideas

• Effective measures to combat the issue of cyberbullying
• How can teachers establish a personal connection with each of their students?
• The role of academic and social activities in improving a society
• employing resources at hand to establish a centralized community
• Opportunities to develop management strategies and skills
• Discuss the importance of palliative care and EBP (evidence-based practice) for adult patients with terminal diseases
• Analysis of the Role of substance abuse and Use of illicit drugs in Teenage and College student’s life
• Explain the religious norms, laws, boundaries, and religious crimes in terms of developed and developing countries
• Discuss the way there should be different strategies primary and secondary school teachers can apply to manage children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Discuss the barrier children with autism face in learning and how teachers should cater to the needs of such students in their class
• Discuss the kind of subjugation women experience in developed countries where gender-based domestic violence no longer exists
• Describe the ways to handle and manage a business by getting out of the challenges given by geographical variations in a nation
• Identify and analyze the importance of SCM (supply and chain management)and how it can be seen by applying the supply and demand theory
• Why there is an urgent need to undertake effective measures to check the growth of the emissions of CO2 and other GHG (greenhouse gas) in the environment?
• Psychology is a discipline that is very crucial for the proper development of a rational being: Explain with justifications

Engaging Qualitative Research Paper Topics

• Does free education have socioeconomic benefits?
• Explain the impact of Plato’s philosophy on mathematics.
• What are the main influences on eating habits in children?
• How to reduce violence in sports.
• Analyze the effectiveness of Apple and Windows products in the Globe.
• Write about sexual misconduct in colleges.
• What are the effective ways to resolve conflicts in the workplace?
• Discuss the application of AI in project management.
• How to eliminate corruption in developing countries.
• Why is job satisfaction important in brand management?

The above-suggested list of topics will definitely help you to write an excellent qualitative research paper. If you find it difficult to write an academic essay or research paper, then contact us immediately.

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• What Is Qualitative Research? | Methods & Examples

What Is Qualitative Research? | Methods & Examples

Published on June 19, 2020 by Pritha Bhandari . Revised on June 22, 2023.

Qualitative research involves collecting and analyzing non-numerical data (e.g., text, video, or audio) to understand concepts, opinions, or experiences. It can be used to gather in-depth insights into a problem or generate new ideas for research.

Qualitative research is the opposite of quantitative research , which involves collecting and analyzing numerical data for statistical analysis.

Qualitative research is commonly used in the humanities and social sciences, in subjects such as anthropology, sociology, education, health sciences, history, etc.

• How does social media shape body image in teenagers?
• How do children and adults interpret healthy eating in the UK?
• What factors influence employee retention in a large organization?
• How is anxiety experienced around the world?
• How can teachers integrate social issues into science curriculums?

Table of contents

Approaches to qualitative research, qualitative research methods, qualitative data analysis, advantages of qualitative research, disadvantages of qualitative research, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about qualitative research.

Qualitative research is used to understand how people experience the world. While there are many approaches to qualitative research, they tend to be flexible and focus on retaining rich meaning when interpreting data.

Common approaches include grounded theory, ethnography , action research , phenomenological research, and narrative research. They share some similarities, but emphasize different aims and perspectives.

Note that qualitative research is at risk for certain research biases including the Hawthorne effect , observer bias , recall bias , and social desirability bias . While not always totally avoidable, awareness of potential biases as you collect and analyze your data can prevent them from impacting your work too much.

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Each of the research approaches involve using one or more data collection methods . These are some of the most common qualitative methods:

• Observations: recording what you have seen, heard, or encountered in detailed field notes.
• Interviews:  personally asking people questions in one-on-one conversations.
• Focus groups: asking questions and generating discussion among a group of people.
• Surveys : distributing questionnaires with open-ended questions.
• Secondary research: collecting existing data in the form of texts, images, audio or video recordings, etc.
• You take field notes with observations and reflect on your own experiences of the company culture.
• You distribute open-ended surveys to employees across all the company’s offices by email to find out if the culture varies across locations.
• You conduct in-depth interviews with employees in your office to learn about their experiences and perspectives in greater detail.

Qualitative researchers often consider themselves “instruments” in research because all observations, interpretations and analyses are filtered through their own personal lens.

For this reason, when writing up your methodology for qualitative research, it’s important to reflect on your approach and to thoroughly explain the choices you made in collecting and analyzing the data.

Qualitative data can take the form of texts, photos, videos and audio. For example, you might be working with interview transcripts, survey responses, fieldnotes, or recordings from natural settings.

Most types of qualitative data analysis share the same five steps:

• Prepare and organize your data. This may mean transcribing interviews or typing up fieldnotes.
• Review and explore your data. Examine the data for patterns or repeated ideas that emerge.
• Develop a data coding system. Based on your initial ideas, establish a set of codes that you can apply to categorize your data.
• Assign codes to the data. For example, in qualitative survey analysis, this may mean going through each participant’s responses and tagging them with codes in a spreadsheet. As you go through your data, you can create new codes to add to your system if necessary.
• Identify recurring themes. Link codes together into cohesive, overarching themes.

There are several specific approaches to analyzing qualitative data. Although these methods share similar processes, they emphasize different concepts.

Qualitative research often tries to preserve the voice and perspective of participants and can be adjusted as new research questions arise. Qualitative research is good for:

• Flexibility

The data collection and analysis process can be adapted as new ideas or patterns emerge. They are not rigidly decided beforehand.

• Natural settings

Data collection occurs in real-world contexts or in naturalistic ways.

• Meaningful insights

Detailed descriptions of people’s experiences, feelings and perceptions can be used in designing, testing or improving systems or products.

• Generation of new ideas

Open-ended responses mean that researchers can uncover novel problems or opportunities that they wouldn’t have thought of otherwise.

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Researchers must consider practical and theoretical limitations in analyzing and interpreting their data. Qualitative research suffers from:

• Unreliability

The real-world setting often makes qualitative research unreliable because of uncontrolled factors that affect the data.

• Subjectivity

Due to the researcher’s primary role in analyzing and interpreting data, qualitative research cannot be replicated . The researcher decides what is important and what is irrelevant in data analysis, so interpretations of the same data can vary greatly.

• Limited generalizability

Small samples are often used to gather detailed data about specific contexts. Despite rigorous analysis procedures, it is difficult to draw generalizable conclusions because the data may be biased and unrepresentative of the wider population .

• Labor-intensive

Although software can be used to manage and record large amounts of text, data analysis often has to be checked or performed manually.

If you want to know more about statistics , methodology , or research bias , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

• Chi square goodness of fit test
• Degrees of freedom
• Null hypothesis
• Discourse analysis
• Control groups
• Mixed methods research
• Non-probability sampling
• Quantitative research
• Inclusion and exclusion criteria

Research bias

• Rosenthal effect
• Implicit bias
• Cognitive bias
• Selection bias
• Negativity bias
• Status quo bias

Quantitative research deals with numbers and statistics, while qualitative research deals with words and meanings.

Quantitative methods allow you to systematically measure variables and test hypotheses . Qualitative methods allow you to explore concepts and experiences in more detail.

There are five common approaches to qualitative research :

• Grounded theory involves collecting data in order to develop new theories.
• Ethnography involves immersing yourself in a group or organization to understand its culture.
• Narrative research involves interpreting stories to understand how people make sense of their experiences and perceptions.
• Phenomenological research involves investigating phenomena through people’s lived experiences.
• Action research links theory and practice in several cycles to drive innovative changes.

Data collection is the systematic process by which observations or measurements are gathered in research. It is used in many different contexts by academics, governments, businesses, and other organizations.

There are various approaches to qualitative data analysis , but they all share five steps in common:

• Prepare and organize your data.
• Review and explore your data.
• Develop a data coding system.
• Assign codes to the data.
• Identify recurring themes.

The specifics of each step depend on the focus of the analysis. Some common approaches include textual analysis , thematic analysis , and discourse analysis .

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Top 70 qualitative research topics to ace 2022.

November 16, 2020

There is no denying it; qualitative research topics are not as easy as ABC. To some, statistics is an enthralling subject while others may opt to clean the sea rather than sit in a statistics class. Millions of students around the globe face this crossroad. The task is further complicated by the fact that qualitative assignments deal with a cognitive analysis of data.

If this is you, calm down. Our expert writers have already analyzed your problem and collated a list of 70 qualitative research paper topics for your inspiration. Keep your eyes peeled.

However, before we venture into our topic list, here is something you need to have at your fingertips;

What Is Qualitative Research?

It is the creative and investigative analysis of intangible and inexact data. The method is inductive in that the researcher codes the data during or after the collection. It is, therefore, necessary to have top-notch qualitative research topics for a first-class paper.

Qualitative Nursing Research Topics

• How stress affects people’s behaviour
• The efficacy of a particular medication to a patient
• Environmental factors that necessitate quicker patient recovery
• The feminist empiricism perspective of the nursing profession
• How social processes influence patient behaviour
• Unique attributes of a culture that determines a patient’s success rate

Qualitative Research Topics in Education

• Ethnic and socioeconomic reasons for poor school attendance in developing countries
• The efficiency of the teaching methods
• Why most students perform poorly in sciences as compared to humanities
• The number of students who pursue their college studies to the end
• What is the level of academic preparedness of university students?
• A case study on the victims of bullying in schools

Qualitative Research Topics Ideas

• Correlation between Apple and Windows products
• The advantages of online learning over physical learning
• How have businesses transited into online digital marketing?
• The 30 most travelled places in the world
• Discuss on the rate at which the ozone layer is depleting
• Can we detect and prevent natural disasters before they occur?

College Qualitative Research Topics List

• How virtual reality worlds are transforming society
• Is it possible to have the same education system throughout the whole world?
• Evaluate the performance of mixed schools over single-gender schools
• Is preschool education necessary for children under four years
• The impact of unhealthy market completion on supply and demand
• The role of parents in shaping their children’s morals

Qualitative Research Topics Examples

• The impact of alcohol on a person’s normal behaviour
• Self-esteem among people from low socioeconomic backgrounds
• How often should one engage in sporting activities?
• What influences the eating habits of children?
• How to reduce the chances of contracting a viral disease
• Management of depression among school-going children

Good Qualitative Research Topics

• Effective therapy for patients recovering brain surgery
• Influence of pop music on erratic youth behaviour
• Approaches to improving maternal healthcare in developing countries
• Possible solutions for alleviating pain during childbirth
• Prevention measures against contracting coronavirus in crowded places
• Working government policies on protocol observance

Research Topics For Qualitative Research

• New ways of mitigating communicable diseases
• Emerging trends in digital media
• Worrying trends among the ageing population
• The importance of quarantine during the spread of infectious diseases
• How to promote social equity in patriarchal societies
• Effective strategies that can help curb the problem of cyberbullying

Easy Qualitative Research Topics

• The efficacy of homeschooling programs
• Understanding the key roles of healthy eating habits
• New ways of reaching out to the prospective market
• Factoring in the dynamics of real estate investment
• Latest newsgathering technologies and their effectiveness
• The effects of developing introvert behaviour
• Overcoming addictions through sharing with others
• Creating a community of one people

Topics For Ethnography Qualitative Research

• Transforming virtual ethnography into a modernized form
• How to be close to each other yet so far away
• Rethinking consumer appraisals and motivations
• How can teachers develop a one-on-one relationship with their students
• The place of social and academic practices in uplifting a society
• Creating a centralized community using available resources

Qualitative Research Topics in Public Health

• Strategies for promoting the health sector during the coronavirus pandemic
• Effective obesity management strategies for the young
• Ideas for quitting cigarettes and alcohol
• Programs for community-based sanitization
• Preventative methods for flu during cold seasons
• Techniques of making eco-friendly facemasks
• Positive ways of recovering from a loss
• Means of achieving affordable healthcare in low-income societies

Qualitative Research Topics in Project Management

• Ways of planning for a long-term project
• Dealing with a backlash during a project implementation programme
• Means of relieving pressure for tight project deadlines
• Understanding the essence of time management in goal setting
• Why managers should be flexible and apt in their decisions
• Opportunities for the growth of management skills and techniques

You can never miss a qualitative research assignment. Therefore, use any of the examples of qualitative research topics above for your motivation. The issues should propel you to composing a top-rated qualitative research paper.

In case you are stuck, seek our quality and cheap writing help services 24/7. Order now!

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You’re on a business trip in Oakland, CA. You've been working late in downtown and now you're looking for a place nearby to grab a late dinner. You decided to check Zomato to try and find somewhere to eat. (Don't begin searching yet).

• Look around on the home page. Does anything seem interesting to you?
• How would you go about finding a place to eat near you in Downtown Oakland? You want something kind of quick, open late, not too expensive, and with a good rating.
• What do the reviews say about the restaurant you've chosen?
• What was the most important factor for you in choosing this spot?
• You're currently close to the 19th St Bart station, and it's 9PM. How would you get to this restaurant? Do you think you'll be able to make it before closing time?
• Your friend recommended you to check out a place called Belly while you're in Oakland. Try to find where it is, when it's open, and what kind of food options they have.
• Now go to any restaurant's page and try to leave a review (don't actually submit it).

What was the worst thing about your experience?

It was hard to find the bart station. The collections not being able to be sorted was a bit of a bummer

What other aspects of the experience could be improved?

Feedback from the owners would be nice

What did you like about the website?

The flow was good, lots of bright photos

What other comments do you have for the owner of the website?

I like that you can sort by what you are looking for and i like the idea of collections

You're going on a vacation to Italy next month, and you want to learn some basic Italian for getting around while there. You decided to try Duolingo.

• Please begin by downloading the app to your device.
• Choose Italian and get started with the first lesson (stop once you reach the first question).
• Now go all the way through the rest of the first lesson, describing your thoughts as you go.
• Get your profile set up, then view your account page. What information and options are there? Do you feel that these are useful? Why or why not?
• After a week in Italy, you're going to spend a few days in Austria. How would you take German lessons on Duolingo?
• What other languages does the app offer? Do any of them interest you?

I felt like there could have been a little more of an instructional component to the lesson.

It would be cool if there were some feature that could allow two learners studying the same language to take lessons together. I imagine that their screens would be synced and they could go through lessons together and chat along the way.

Overall, the app was very intuitive to use and visually appealing. I also liked the option to connect with others.

Overall, the app seemed very helpful and easy to use. I feel like it makes learning a new language fun and almost like a game. It would be nice, however, if it contained more of an instructional portion.

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25 Essential Qualitative Research Questions with Context

• Health and Well-being:

Question: How do individuals with chronic illnesses perceive and manage their overall well-being?

Context: This question aims to explore the subjective experiences of individuals living with chronic illnesses, focusing on their perceptions of well-being and the strategies they employ to manage their health.

Question: What are the experiences of teachers implementing project-based learning in high school science classrooms?

Context: This question delves into the qualitative aspects of teaching practices, seeking to understand the lived experiences of teachers as they implement a specific instructional approach (project-based learning) in a particular academic context (high school science classrooms).

Question: How do marginalized communities perceive and navigate social inclusion in urban environments?

Context: This question addresses the sociological dimensions of social inclusion within urban settings, focusing on the perspectives and strategies of marginalized communities as they navigate societal structures.

• Psychology:

Question: What are the coping mechanisms employed by individuals facing post-traumatic stress disorder?

Context: This question explores the psychological experiences of individuals dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, aiming to uncover the qualitative aspects of coping strategies and mechanisms.

• Anthropology:

Question: How does a specific cultural group express identity through traditional rituals and ceremonies?

Context: This anthropological question focuses on cultural practices and rituals as expressions of identity within a specific cultural group, aiming to uncover the meanings and functions of these traditions.

• Gender Studies:

Question: What are the lived experiences of transgender individuals in the workplace, particularly regarding inclusion and discrimination?

Context: This question within gender studies explores the qualitative dimensions of transgender individuals’ workplace experiences, emphasizing the nuanced aspects of inclusion and discrimination they may encounter.

• Environmental Studies:

Question: How do local communities perceive and respond to environmental conservation efforts in their region?

Context: This question addresses the intersection of environmental studies and sociology, aiming to understand the qualitative perspectives of local communities toward conservation initiatives, exploring their perceptions and responses.

• Business and Management:

Question: How do employees perceive leadership styles and their impact on workplace culture?

Context: Within the realm of business and management, this question explores the qualitative aspects of organizational culture, focusing on employees’ perceptions of leadership styles and their influence on the workplace environment.

• Technology and Society:

Question: What are the social implications and user experiences of emerging technologies in the context of augmented reality applications?

Context: This question within the field of technology and society investigates the qualitative dimensions of user experiences and social implications related to the adoption of augmented reality applications.

• Communication Studies:

Question: How do individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds interpret and respond to media representations of body image?

Context: This question explores the intersection of communication studies and cultural studies, aiming to understand the qualitative variations in how individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds interpret and respond to media depictions of body image.

• Political Science:

Question: What are the public perceptions and attitudes toward government policies on climate change?

Context: Within political science, this question delves into the qualitative aspects of public opinion, seeking to understand how individuals perceive and respond to government policies related to climate change.

• Cultural Studies:

Question: How do international students experience acculturation and adaptation in a foreign academic environment?

Context: This question within cultural studies explores the qualitative dimensions of acculturation and adaptation, focusing on the experiences of international students within the context of a foreign academic environment.

• Family Studies:

Question: How do families navigate and negotiate roles and responsibilities in the context of remote work?

Context: In the domain of family studies, this question addresses the qualitative aspects of family dynamics, examining how families navigate and negotiate roles and responsibilities in the context of remote work.

• Public Health:

Question: How do community members perceive and engage with public health campaigns aimed at promoting vaccination in underserved urban areas?

Context: This public health question investigates the qualitative aspects of community perceptions and engagement with vaccination campaigns, particularly in urban areas with limited access to healthcare resources.

• Urban Planning:

Question: What are the experiences of residents in gentrifying neighborhoods regarding changes in their community dynamics, affordability, and social cohesion?

Context: Within urban planning, this question explores the qualitative dimensions of gentrification, focusing on residents’ lived experiences and perceptions of neighborhood transformations.

• Literature and Cultural Criticism:

Question: How do contemporary authors use literature to critique and challenge societal norms around gender roles and identity?

Context: In the realm of literature and cultural criticism, this question examines the qualitative dimensions of literary works, exploring how authors use their craft to challenge and critique societal norms related to gender.

• Social Work:

Question: What are the perceptions of social workers regarding the challenges and opportunities in providing mental health support to homeless populations?

Context: This social work question addresses the qualitative aspects of mental health support within homeless populations, exploring social workers’ perspectives on challenges and opportunities in their roles.

• Tourism and Hospitality:

Question: How do tourists from different cultural backgrounds experience and interpret authenticity in local culinary traditions?

Context: Within tourism and hospitality, this question explores the qualitative aspects of cultural experiences, focusing on tourists’ perceptions and interpretations of authenticity in local culinary traditions.

• Media and Entertainment:

Question: How do audiences engage with and interpret representations of diverse identities in streaming platforms’ original content?

Context: In the realm of media and entertainment, this question investigates the qualitative dimensions of audience engagement and interpretation of diverse identities in content produced by streaming platforms.

• Historical Studies:

Question: What are the narratives and memories of individuals who lived through a significant historical event, and how have these narratives evolved over time?

Context: Within historical studies, this question explores the qualitative aspects of personal narratives and memory, investigating how individuals recall and frame their experiences of a significant historical event.

• Linguistics:

Question: How do multilingual individuals navigate language use and identity in diverse linguistic environments?

Context: In the field of linguistics, this question delves into the qualitative dimensions of language use and identity, focusing on how multilingual individuals navigate linguistic diversity in their environments.

• Cybersecurity:

Question: What are the perceptions and behaviors of employees in organizations regarding cybersecurity practices, and how do these perceptions influence organizational security?

Context: Within cybersecurity, this question explores the qualitative aspects of employees’ perceptions and behaviors related to cybersecurity practices, examining their impact on organizational security.

• Human-Computer Interaction:

Question: How do users experience and adapt to voice-controlled virtual assistants in their daily lives, considering factors such as privacy concerns and usability?

Context: In human-computer interaction, this question investigates the qualitative aspects of user experiences with voice-controlled virtual assistants, considering factors such as privacy concerns and usability challenges.

• International Development:

Question: How do local communities perceive and negotiate the impacts of international development projects on their cultural and economic landscapes?

Context: This international development question explores the qualitative dimensions of community perceptions and negotiations regarding the impacts of international development projects, considering cultural and economic factors.

• Sport Psychology:

Question: What are the psychological experiences and coping mechanisms of athletes during periods of extended competition hiatus, such as the postponement of major sporting events?

Context: In sport psychology, this question delves into the qualitative aspects of athletes’ psychological experiences and coping mechanisms during extended competition hiatus, such as the postponement of major sporting events.

These additional detailed examples provide a broader perspective on qualitative research questions, covering diverse fields of study and highlighting the nuanced inquiries within each domain.

Interested in learning more about the fields of product, research, and design? Search our articles here for helpful information spanning a wide range of topics!

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Student priorities for topics, pedagogies, and outcomes in senior secondary religious education: an australian perspective.

1. Introduction

1.1. the catholic school and religious education.

What will religion’s contribution be to educating younger generations to peace, development, fraternity in the universal human community? How are we going to educate them to faith and in faith? How will we establish the preliminary conditions to accept this gift, to educate them to gratitude, to a sense of awe, to asking themselves questions, to develop a sense of justice and consistency? How will we educate them to prayer? (n. III)

1.2. The Evolving Nature of Religious Education

… religion teachers clarify what they are trying to accomplish in both the short and long terms. It helps give perspective, purpose, and direction to their teaching. It helps shape reasonable and realistic expectation of what can be achieved in the classroom, and of what is respected as the private inner workings of young people’s minds that are not open to scrutiny. It can affect their choice of content and methods, as well as the questions they ask of students in class, and the sorts of responses they would like to get. It can help them evaluate various theories of Religious Education as well as discern where expectations and practice may be inappropriate and/or unrealistic. It can help them value their own teaching and their profession as religious educators ( Rossiter 1999, p. 3 ).

1.3. A Reconceptualist Approach to Religious Education

Classroom religious education is about educating young people spiritually, ethically, and religiously. It is not primarily a religious experience, but it is essentially teaching young people about religion, and about spiritual and moral issues, from a Catholic viewpoint. ( Rossiter 2018, p. 1 )

1.4. Research Context

• What did students perceive to be important topics?
• What did students perceive to be important pedagogical approaches?
• What did students perceive as important outcomes?
• What was the overall level of student satisfaction?
• What combination of topics, pedagogies, and outcomes contribute to levels of satisfaction?

2.1. Participants

2.2. data collection, 2.3. data analysis, 3.1. topics.

To me, I feel it’s the morality side of things not so much the text and reading too deep into the text, but more looking at… you know the example that Jesus set and the modern take on that.

Like I wouldn’t describe it as another subject to study, but more just a chance to participate and engage in religion in a different way. Which is how, if I was selling it to someone, I would sell it in that way, like you get the chance to study a subject that you’re interested in and help you moving forward after school. And you also don’t lose the ability to study religion, which a lot of us here enjoyed.

You definitely do get involved in religion, and but in this amount and in an engaging way. It’s definitely more helpful to be able to talk about religion. In this sense, we’re not being hindered by assignments or exams surrounding religion as an [traditional Religious Education subject], ‘so you really get to learn’, I guess. Yeah, more important moral questions … And it’s definitely more educational, in that sense.

3.2. Pedagogies

• Timetabling and scheduling

RML happens every two weeks, and in the afternoons, we basically take a few hours to discuss… And we begin with a few focus questions to start up the conversation. And those can range from what are your personal beliefs to what do you think about this specific topic

• Respectful inclusion

So, in normal religion classes, it’s very structured, and there’s really no room to talk about what you think or your interpretations. It’s mostly just analysing Scripture or, you know, that kind of thing. But in RML, it’s way more open, as they said before. But it’s much more welcoming, especially if you don’t already like talking in front of people. If you chime in with your beliefs, it’s very welcome, and it can branch into completely different conversations, which are really beneficial. And I think that’s the best part of RML.

• Student agency

I feel like what you said before about the relationship between us. It’s pretty good. But it’s even better when you have something like [teacher’s name] who’s willing to share his story. And that sort of encourages us to sort of get our perspective, like he’s told us a lot about growing up with religion and how that impacted his life and how his understanding of religion has grown and changed and pick the people around him. And that’s, I guess, something you wouldn’t get on the Internet.

• Diversity of witness

It’s different for everyone, and that’s probably one of the best things we’ve explored. We also looked at, um, how religious practises like how that has an influence on our life, I guess, like whether we’re devout Catholics and we go to church every Sunday, or whether it’s just something we passively engage in at school and how that differs between each of us and [teacher] included. So, I guess that’s the best thing is discussing that getting to hear from different people about.

3.3. Outcomes

• Personal meaning

It (studying RML) gave me the ability to choose another subject. But I also feel like I gained. It gave me an insight to what religion means on a deeper sort of level, because I got to find out what other people see in that conversation sort of atmosphere.

• Application

But what I’ve always liked about RML is it focuses more on the meaning… So, while of course, some of our activities may lead us into an environment that could resemble being in the chapel… Now the volunteering opportunities that we have with Catholic Mission and that kind of sphere of things, you could say that involves prayer. But in a regular session, I wouldn’t describe it as being prayerful at any stage.

• Safe learning environment

We do stay after school [to do RML]. But it’s a good atmosphere around here just to spend time with my friends and just to talk generally. So, it’s had a good impact on my mental health. Just sitting here in a good environment. And what else have I gained from this course? Well, obviously I’ve strengthened my understanding on Christianity and other religions, which we all talk about here, and [teacher’s] perspectives on certain topics and just everyone’s opinions and everyone’s beliefs. They all combine and merge together, so it allows me to have a deeper understanding of all the topics we talked about.

3.4. Overall Satisfaction and Comparisons

3.5. assessment of influence, 4. discussion and conclusions, 4.1. theoretical propositions, 4.2. practice implications, author contributions, institutional review board statement, informed consent statement, data availability statement, conflicts of interest.

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Share and Cite

Sultmann, W.; Lamb, J.; Ivers, P.; Craig, M. Student Priorities for Topics, Pedagogies, and Outcomes in Senior Secondary Religious Education: An Australian Perspective. Religions 2024 , 15 , 1029. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15091029

Sultmann W, Lamb J, Ivers P, Craig M. Student Priorities for Topics, Pedagogies, and Outcomes in Senior Secondary Religious Education: An Australian Perspective. Religions . 2024; 15(9):1029. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15091029

Sultmann, William, Janeen Lamb, Peter Ivers, and Mark Craig. 2024. "Student Priorities for Topics, Pedagogies, and Outcomes in Senior Secondary Religious Education: An Australian Perspective" Religions 15, no. 9: 1029. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15091029

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• Published: 20 August 2024

“Because people don’t know what it is, they don’t really know it exists” : a qualitative study of postgraduate medical educators’ perceptions of dyscalculia

• Laura Josephine Cheetham 1  

BMC Medical Education volume  24 , Article number:  896 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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Dyscalculia is defined as a specific learning difference or neurodiversity. Despite a move within postgraduate medical education (PGME) towards promoting inclusivity and addressing differential attainment, dyscalculia remains an unexplored area.

Using an interpretivist, constructivist, qualitative methodology, this scoping study explores PGME educators’ attitudes, understanding and perceived challenges of supporting doctors in training (DiT) with dyscalculia. Through purposive sampling, semi-structured interviews and reflexive thematic analysis, the stories of ten Wales-based PGME educators were explored.

Multiple themes emerged relating to lack of educator knowledge, experience and identification of learners with dyscalculia. Participants’ roles as educators and clinicians were inextricably linked, with PGME seen as deeply embedded in social interactions. Overall, a positive attitude towards doctors with dyscalculia underpinned the strongly DiT-centred approach to supporting learning, tempered by uncertainty over potential patient safety-related risks. Perceiving themselves as learners, educators saw the educator-learner relationship as a major learning route given the lack of dyscalculia training available, with experience leading to confidence.

Conclusions

Overall, educators perceived a need for greater dyscalculia awareness, understanding and knowledge, pre-emptive training and evidence-based, feasible guidance introduction. Although methodological limitations are inherent, this study constructs novel, detailed understanding from educators relating to dyscalculia in PGME, providing a basis for future research.

Peer Review reports

Dyscalculia is categorised as a specific learning difference or part of neurodiversity in the UK and a learning disability in North America. Learners with dyscalculia are said to have significant difficulties in numerical processing [ 1 ]. It is increasingly acknowledged that these relate to arithmetic, statistics, ordinance, number and code memorisation and recall, with other individual variance [ 2 , 3 ]. Here, I chose to use “specific learning difference” (SpLD) to acknowledge that some feel SpLDs relate to a difference in learning needs but may not always result in learners identifying as disabled [ 4 , 5 ]. Most contemporary definitions state that these challenges are out of keeping with learner age, intelligence level and educational background [ 1 ], evolve over time but persist during adulthood.

Dyscalculia is a comparatively recently recognised SpLD with a relatively low ‘diagnosed’ population prevalence, with estimates ranging between 3% and 7% [ 2 ]. Awareness of dyscalculia is lower than more highly ‘diagnosed’ SpLDs such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) [ 3 ], with a paucity of research-based evidence, especially relating to adult learners [ 2 ]. Of the two studies exploring dyscalculia in Higher Education Institutions (HEI), from the perspective of learners, both Drew [ 3 ] and Lynn [ 6 , 7 ] outlined poor understanding within adult learning environments and a lack of recognition of dyscalculia and of HEI learning support provision. Additionally, learner challenges were different to those described in dyslexia and dyspraxia studies, with understanding and perception of time, distance, finances, non-integer numbers, memorisation and recall of numerical codes and values being frequent issues. Potential complexity arose through possible coexistence of dyslexia or mathematical anxiety, varying learner-developed coping strategies effectiveness and learner coping mechanisms becoming ineffective during undergraduate or postgraduate education [ 3 ]. Drew’s [ 3 ] three healthcare learner participants had also experienced potential fitness to practice concerns either from themselves or educators.

Context for medical education

The number of DiT in postgraduate medical education (PGME) with dyscalculia remains unknown. Similarly, awareness levels of PGME educators, or what their experiences might be, of facilitating the learning of DiT with dyscalculia is unexplored. Indeed, there has been no published research to date relating to dyscalculia in PGME or undergraduate medical education.

This paucity of knowledge is set in the context of a presumed increasing proportion of UK PGME DiT learners with a disability resulting from increasing numbers of medical students in the UK reporting a disability [ 8 , 9 ] and in other countries such as Australia [ 10 ]. Data collection via the statutory education bodies, and the medical regulator, the General Medical Council (GMC), is challenging given the voluntary nature of SpLD declaration and persisting concerns regarding discrimination and stigma [ 11 ]. My Freedom of Information request to the GMC in February 2022 revealed that 1.25% of registered doctors have declared a ‘learning disability’ (including SpLDs) such as dyslexia.

The impact of dyscalculia on DiT and their educators is unknown. The GMC defines differential attainment as the gap in assessment outcomes between learners grouped by protected characteristic [ 12 ]. It recently commissioned research into recommending education providers create more inclusive learning environments for disabled learners [ 13 ]. Other recent research indicates that differential attainment may persist from school-based examinations through to medical school exit ranking scores and onto PGME examinations [ 14 ].

Currently, there is no publicly available information addressing the support of PGME DiT with dyscalculia within the UK, and no known prospective screening in place. Support, including reasonable adjustments for PGME DiT with additional learning needs is accessed through, and coordinated by, education bodies’ Professional Support Units (PSU), including Health Educator and Improvement Wales’ (HEIW) PSU in Wales. More widely, HEIW, the education body in Wales, is responsible for delivery and quality management of PGME in accordance with UK-level standards set by the GMC and medical speciality Royal Colleges and Faculties. Reasonable adjustments are changes, additions, or the removal of learning environment elements to provide learners with additional support and remediate disadvantage [ 15 ]. They are frequently purported to enable learners with SpLDs to learn and perform to their potential, although evidence for this is variable [ 16 , 17 ], with a marked lack of research relating to adult learners with dyscalculia.

Despite recent shifts from more teacher-centred to more student-centred learning approaches, with a range of andrological learning theories emphasising the learner being at the centre of learning [ 18 ], the educationalist remains a key element of many learning theories and PGME. Many PGME educators are practising doctors and, alongside this, must maintain a contemporaneous understanding of learning theory, training delivery, teaching, supervision and wider educational policies. However, how they approach, or would plan to approach, supporting learning for DiT with dyscalculia is unknown. Therefore, exploring the attitudes and perspectives of PGME DiT or educators regarding dyscalculia, both unresearched previously, through this paradigm could be valuable [ 19 ].

Educational challenges, learning needs and local context

For educators, a pivotal part of facilitating learning is understanding the learning needs of learners, felt to be a cornerstone of adult pedagogy [ 19 , 20 ]. Davis et al. [ 20 ] define learning needs as ‘’any gap between what is and what should be”. These can be established subjectively, objectively or a combination approach. However, Grant [ 19 ] cautions against conducting limiting, formulaic learning need assessments.

Identifying attitudes and understanding

Furthermore, attitudes are said to frame educator approaches and thus the learning experiences learners will have [ 21 ]. Attitudes are defined as “a feeling or opinion about something or someone, or a way of behaving that is caused by this” [ 22 ]. Interpretivism offers a route to exploring such attitudes by outlining that there is no one universal truth or fact, but instead many equally valid realities constructed by different individuals, their meaning-making and their experiences.

Again, research is absent within medical education relating to educators’ attitudes and understanding of learners with dyscalculia and how these might influence their approach. Current research indicates attitudes of HEI educators are often formed through their past - or absent past - experiences, lack of legal obligations knowledge and, for healthcare educators, the patient-centred role of clinical learners [ 23 ]. These appeared to help form their approach to facilitating teaching [ 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 ]. Therefore, understanding PGME educationalist attitudes towards DiT with dyscalculia would be important in helping understand how learning is facilitated.

Thus, there exists a clear lack of published knowledge and understanding regarding dyscalculia set in a context of increasing awareness of the importance of inclusivity and addressing differential attainment within medical education. The importance of educators in facilitating learning of such PGME DiT suggests that exploring their perspectives and understanding could provide valuable insights into this understudied area. Such knowledge could provide benefit to learners and those designing and delivering programmes of learning for DiT and programmes of support for educators. This includes potentially exploring the attitudes and understanding of educators who have no direct experience of dyscalculia, given that this could be the context in which a DiT with dyscalculia finds themselves in a postgraduate learning environment. Assumptions, or perceptions generated without experience or knowledge of dyscalculia, are equally important to understand in a learning context when the awareness level and prevalence of dyscalculia within DiT is unknown. This allows understanding of how learning for DiT with dyscalculia may be facilitated in a knowledge and understanding-poor context, and furthermore, what educator needs exist and what further research is needed.

Consequently, the research question and aims below were constructed.

Research question:

What are the attitudes towards , understanding and perceived challenges of dyscalculia within postgraduate medical training by postgraduate medical educators?

Research aims:

To explore the awareness and understanding of dyscalculia that postgraduate medical educators may or may not have.

To determine the attitudes that postgraduate educators have towards dyscalculia and DiT with dyscalculia and how these might be formed.

To establish the challenges that postgraduate educators perceive they encounter or might encounter when facilitating the learning of a DiT who has dyscalculia.

To provide the basis for future research studies exploring how to facilitate the learning of DiT with dyscalculia during postgraduate training.

This scoping study was designed using an interpretivist, constructivist qualitative methodology to understand the phenomenon, in detail [ 30 ] as part of a Masters in Medical Education programme.

A literature review was undertaken to enable research question and aim construction. Firstly, a focused literature search ascertained the level, and lack, of evidence existing for the study phenomenon followed by four, progressively broader, searches to understand the wider context, between October 2021 and May 2022, revealing the lack of, or limited, literature existing.

The literature search was then performed by me using guidance [ 31 , 32 ] and twenty-seven research search engines. Additionally, a spectrum of journals was searched directly. Literature was also identified through snowballing.

Keyword search terms were developed and refined during the literature search, with limits on further broadening the search based on relevance to the areas of interest: postgraduate learners, educators and SpLDs using different term combinations exploring dyscalculia and postgraduate education, SpLDs and postgraduate healthcare learners, postgraduate educators and attitudes or knowledge or experiences of facilitating learning (appendix 1, supplementary material). Broadening of search terms allowed for exploration of analogous phenomena (other SpLDs), in other postgraduate healthcare and learning contexts, and for further research question development, returning 2,638 items. Papers were initially screened using their titles and the inclusion/exclusion criteria (below) generating 182 articles, papers and theses, with abstracts and reference lists reviewed. 174 papers and eight PhD theses were appraised using guidance [ 32 , 33 , 34 ].

Inclusion criteria were:

Primary research or review.

International or UK-based research reported in English.

Postgraduate higher education (university-level, post Bachelor or equivalent degree) setting.

Relating to postgraduate or higher educationalists’ views from any discipline and knowledge of SpLDs.

Exclusion criteria were:

Literature published in non-English languages.

Opinion and commentary articles.

Undergraduate setting, unless mixed cohort/study with postgraduate learners.

Ultimately, 17 papers and one doctoral thesis were included. Whilst grey literature, this thesis [ 3 ] was included due to the dyscalculia-focused insights provided and limited adult-based dyscalculia research elsewhere. After literature appraisal, research aims and a research question were formed.

Semi-structured interviews were chosen to enable data collection and interpretation through a constructivist lens, via open enquiry rather than hypothesis testing [ 30 , 35 , 36 ]. Study participants were PGME educators, actively involved in DiT learning within any PGME programme within Wales whilst holding a Medical Trainer agreement with HEIW. Participants held a range of educationalist roles, from education supervisor to local speciality-specific Royal College tutor (local speciality training lead) to training programme director (responsible for delivery of speciality-specific training across a region).

Interview question and guide design (appendix 2, supplementary material) drew on the six qualitative and six quantitative research-based, validated published tools used to explore similar phenomena, particularly those of O’Hara [ 37 ], Ryder [ 38 ], L’Ecuyer [ 23 ] and Schabmann et al. [ 39 ]. Design also drew upon Cohen et al’s [ 40 ] recommendations of composing open, neutral questioning.

Interview format was piloted using a PGME educator from England (thus ineligible for study recruitment) with modifications resulting from participant feedback and through adopting reflexivity; as per Cohen et al. [ 41 ] and Malmqvist et al. [ 42 ]. Participant interviews took place between May and June 2022 and were recorded via the University-hosted Microsoft Teams platform, due to the pandemic-based situation and large geographical area involved, whilst maintaining interviewer-interviewee visibility during the dialogue [ 35 ]. Recruitment occurred via purposive sampling, through two HEIW gatekeepers, the national Directors of Postgraduate Secondary (hospital-based) and Primary (General Practice-based) Medical Training in Wales. An email-based invitation with project information was distributed to all postgraduate medical educators with a current HEIW Medical Trainer agreement, regularly engaging in the support of learners within PGME training, in Wales. In this case, the gatekeepers in HEIW were individuals who could grant permission and make contact with all potential eligible participants on behalf of myself, through their email databases, whilst adhering to UK data protection regulations [ 43 , 44 ].

Ethical considerations

Formal ethics approval was gained from the Cardiff University School of Medicine Research Ethics Committee. Health Research Authority ethics approval was considered but deemed unnecessary. Informed written and verbal participant consent was obtained prior to, and at the point of, interview respectively. Additionally, verbal consent for video recording was sought, offering audio recording or notetaking alternatives; however, participant discomfort was not reported. Mitigation options to avoid selection bias included selecting alternative volunteers if significant relationships between the researcher and participant had existed.

Invitations to participate were circulated to approximately 2,400 to 2,500 postgraduate secondary care trainers and 600 primary care trainers. 18 individuals indicated interest in participating, one cancelled and seven did not respond to follow-up within the two-month timeframe the MSc project schedule allowed for. Subsequent reasons given for two out of seven who subsequently responded out of timeframe included clinical demands and unexpected personal matters. 10 postgraduate educators were interviewed and all allowed video-based interview recording. Interviews lasted between 40 and 60 min. Interviews were transcribed verbatim by me and checked twice for accuracy, with participants assigned pseudonyms. Data analysis was conducted using reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) and undertaken by me, the author, as the single coder and Masters student, with transcripts analysed three times.

RTA followed the six-step approach of Braun et al. [ 45 ], Braun and Clarke [ 46 ] and Braun and Clarke [ 47 ], with a primarily inductive approach [ 47 , 48 ] through an iterative process. Both latent and semantic coding approaches were used, guided by meaning interpretation [ 49 ].

RTA allowed exploration through an interpretivist lens. Discussions persist regarding how RTA sample size sufficiency and ‘data saturation’ are determined, with RTA placing more emphasis on the analyst-based individualism of meaning-making. Therefore, mechanisms for determining thematic saturation are purportedly inconsistent and unreliable [ 50 ]. Consequently, sample size was based on the maximum number of participants recruited within the set project time limits.

Reflexivity

I strove to adopt reflexivity throughout, using a research diary and personal reflections, referring to Finlay [ 51 ] who stated that such subjectivity can evolve into an opportunity. My interest in the studied phenomenon resulted partially from my experiences as a DiT with SpLDs and from being a DiT representative. Acknowledging this was important given my perspective, as an intrinsic part of this research, could have affected data gathering, interpretation, and, ultimately, study findings through introducing insider status.

Additionally, holding an influential role within the research, with potential for ‘interviewer bias’ [ 52 ], I adopted Cohen et al.’s [ 53 ] recommendations, committing to conscious neutrality during interviews and use of an interview prompt list, whilst striving to maintain a reflexive approach. Alongside this, the impact on credibility of this study being part of a Masters project, limiting scale and timeframes were considered and mitigated by exploring these within the discussion and referring to this research as a scoping study.

Educators with limited to no direct experience of learners with dyscalculia knew little to nothing about dyscalculia (Fig.  1 ).

Summary of themes and subthemes generated

Furthermore, of the participants who did, these educators cited close second-hand experiences with family members or past learners with dyscalculia which helped shape their understanding of dyscalculia. Those that had no direct experience drew on empathy and generalisation, extrapolating from the greater knowledge and confidence they had in their understanding regarding dyslexia or other SpLDs or even analysis of the term ‘dyscalculia’ to form definitions and perceptions.

“Absolutely nothing… I saw it , [dyscalculia in the study invitation] didn’t know what it was and Googled it so very , very little really. I suppose in my simplistic surgical sieve head , I would just sort of apply the bits and pieces I know around dyslexia.” P10 .

All suggested dyscalculia represented a specific set of challenges and associated learning needs relating to numbers, numeracy or quantity where overall intelligence was preserved. Educators saw each learner as being an individual, therefore felt dyscalculia would present as a spectrum, with varying challenges and needs existing. Dyscalculia was seen as persisting lifelong, with the challenges and needs evolving with age and experiences. Common challenges suggested related to calculations, statistics, critical appraisal, awareness of time, organisation and recall of number-based information (such as job lists, blood results), spatial dimension quantification, prescribing, fast-paced tasks and emergencies, exams and learning-based fatigue or high cognitive load. Wellbeing issues relating to dyscalculia were also frequently perceived, with this potentially negatively affecting self-confidence and anxiety levels. All educators saw a key aspect of their role to be provision of pastoral support, in enabling effective learning.

Past educator experiences of dyscalculia were linked to perceived confidence in ability to support future DiT with dyscalculia. Educators felt their limited knowledge, with the primary source of information regarding dyscalculia being DiT with dyscalculia themselves, to be reflective of low levels of awareness, knowledge and identification within PGME, education systems and wider society. Some felt the proportion of PGME DiT with dyscalculia would be lower than for the general population, following challenging assessments during secondary school and undergraduate studies, but might be changing given widening participation initiatives within medicine. Others saw a potential hidden iceberg of later career stage doctors with unidentified dyscalculia who had completed training when speciality assessments relied less on numeracy.

“[It] was only because of my own experiences and my [relative] that I was able to kind of wheedle around and , you know , make them recognise that there was an issue and that , you know. But I - I think had I not had an awareness of it , I probably wouldn’t have recognised it , I think.” P7 .

Educators frequently used empathy when attempting to understand dyscalculia. Educators had mixed feelings about ‘labelling’ DiT as having dyscalculia although all felt identification of additional learning needs was key. Some felt labels were necessary to enable and better support DiT with dyscalculia in the absence of effective, feasible, inclusive education approaches, others noted the potential for stigma or generalisations.

None of the participants had received dyscalculia training. Some felt widespread societal normalisation of mathematics challenges adversely impacted upon if, and at what educational stage, dyscalculia identification occurred and needs were recognised. Many felt assumptions might occur regarding dyscalculia through others making generalisations from better known SpLDs, including dyslexia and dyspraxia, in the absence of other knowledge sources but that these extrapolations could be inaccurate and unhelpful.

“And I think there’s a lot of ‘oh you’re just bad with numbers’ or ‘ohh , you just can’t do , you know people are just , I , I suspect there’s a lot of people who have just been told they’re not very good at maths , aren’t there? And it’s just , you know they can’t , can’t do it , which you know is not really very fair , is it?” P7 .

Many felt PGME might represent a critical juncture for DiT with dyscalculia, where effective coping mechanisms developed in the past become ineffective. A variety of such coping mechanisms were suggested or hypothesised, often outlined as depending on the dyscalculia-based experience level of the educator, including checking work with others, calculator use and avoidance of numeracy-dense work or specialities.

Mechanisms were generally viewed positively except where perceived to reduce the likelihood of a DiT recognising dyscalculia themselves and seeking support.

Most felt positively towards learners with dyscalculia and their learning facilitation, especially those with greater experience of dyscalculia. Many balanced this positivity with potential concerns regarding patient safety. Concerns focused especially on heavily numeracy-based tasks, fast-paced situations, or when working independently in surgical or emergency prescription-based situations. Overall, concerns were heightened due to the clinical patient-based context to PGME learning. Two participants felt that not all DiT with dyscalculia should be supported to continue training in particular specialities where numeracy skills were seen as critical, such as ophthalmology.

“I am , and it just seemed really unfair that this one small thing could potentially have such a big impact and could potentially prevent [them] progressing and succeeding in the way that I think you know , [they , they] had the potential to.” P6 .

Educators outlined a dependence on the bidirectionality of learner-educator relationships to best facilitate DiT learning per se, and it was felt all DiT had a responsibility to be honest with educators. Some cited potential barriers to this collaboration, including past negative learner experiences, felt stigma, limited educator time and frequent DiT rotations.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for learning which I really enjoy , because I think that this is a two-way process. You know , I think the DiT gives you things that you reflect on and you should be giving the DiT things that they reflect on” P5 .

Most felt they would take a one-to-one learning approach for DiT with dyscalculia. Group-based, fast-paced or numeracy-rich, higher risk clinical activity-based teaching would be more challenging to cater for.

For some, patient safety uncertainties abutted with the duality of being a clinician and educator, with perceived difficulty in quantifying clinical risks associated with learning and educators’ clinical workload demands limiting available time and resources. Thus, many felt that their educator roles always needed to be tempered with their duties as a doctor, prioritising patient safety and quality of care above all else.

“So , it’s not so much the learning , uh , issue that worries me. I think even if someone had dyscalculia the , uh , concepts of medicine could be understood and the basic outline of what we’re doing , but actually you’ve got to be quite precise in the vocational aspect of , of , of the training , and if you get it wrong , it’s a potential major clinical risk and obviously patient safety has to come first in everything that , that we do.” P4 .

Educators wished strongly for pre-emptive support in facilitating the learning of DiT with dyscalculia, feeling great responsibility both for DiT learning but also for upholding clinical standards and safety. Many felt they would approach HEIW’s PSU for reactive support, including seeking learner ‘diagnosis’, although some predicted this support, and their knowledge, might be limited. However, two participants outlined positive experiences after seeking PSU support.

Most educator participants supported reasonable adjustment use if patient safety and quality of care remained prioritised and preserved. Other conditions for supporting reasonable adjustments included if they enabled without giving undue advantage and if educator-related workload was not overly burdensome. Those with experience of dyscalculia more confidently volunteered reasonable adjustments suggestions, ranging from calculation-table or App access to additional time for numeracy-rich activities. Some perceived a challenging divide between clinical educators and SpLD education experts who could make potentially unfeasible reasonable adjustment recommendations, with participants suggesting the importance of greater involvement of clinical educators in developing support processes.

“If I’m honest , I don’t think we do it very well…They’re [reasonable adjustments offered] very simplistic , … you know , they’re very much based on a sort of global ability rather than realising that processing and other things might be impacted… We’re , we’re probably behind the curve and not really doing what could be done” P8 .

Further example quotes for each theme and subtheme can be found within appendix 3, supplementary material.

Experience shapes educator knowledge, understanding and attitudes

This study reveals novel findings regarding dyscalculia in PGME within a vacuum of prior research. Notably, participants’ views towards PGME learners with dyscalculia, including DiT potential to learn, practise and develop effective coping strategies, were substantially more positive and empathetic than in the closest comparable healthcare studies of other SpLDs [ 23 , 24 , 27 , 29 , 54 ]. Furthermore, the potential impact of societal normalisation of numeracy challenges on awareness of, and attitudes towards, dyscalculia explored by some participants has only previously been noted by Drew [ 3 ].

Educators’ expressions of a sense of personal or healthcare-wide lack of awareness and understanding of dyscalculia aligns with the current UK position [ 2 ]. But they also built on this, outlining how generalisation from other SpLDs or disabilities was frequently used to bridge the dyscalculia knowledge gap with some not recognising this as potentially problematic. This suggests a need for enhanced awareness and understanding within the healthcare education community of the potential fallibility of using generalisation to support learners with poorly understood additional needs.

Moreover, no other studies have revealed that healthcare educators with personal experience of a learner relative with a SpLD displayed universally positive attitudes towards DiT with the same SpLD. Whilst this could reflect inter-study methodological differences, inter-professional differences or the increasing emphasis on compassionate clinical practice [ 55 ], it also suggests influence of educator experience in attitude formation.

In addition to their attitudes, the impact of prior experience of learners with dyscalculia on educators’ knowledge, understanding and confidence was often acknowledged as important by participants. This was seen to an extent in the closest comparable SpLD studies, [ 24 , 54 ] and further shows the diverse influence of past educationalist experiences, particularly the establishment of deep, longitudinal relative-based relationships, aligning with social constructivism [ 56 ].

Unlike HEI lecturers in dyslexia studies [ 24 , 54 ], who frequently questioned the needs of learners, educators saw DiT with dyscalculia as intelligent and high-functioning, having credible additional learning needs. Needs were seen as variable unlike elsewhere. Additionally, the level of detail constructed regarding educators’ perceptions of the needs, strengths and challenges of each DiT with dyscalculia, evolving over time and experience, is not seen in non-dyscalculia SpLD studies and only alluded to for dyscalculia [ 3 ]. These differences, which may be partially explained by varying methodologies or cultural norms regarding how different SpLDs are regarded, are important to better understand.

Furthermore, the preferred educator approach of individualising learning for DiT with dyscalculia is not seen elsewhere in the literature, although this aligns with supporting learning within their zone of proximal development (ZPD). Rather, Ryder and Norwich found HEI educators actually expressed negative attitudes towards individualising learning [ 24 ]. Methodological and SpLD-specific factors may contribute to these differences, with this study’s findings aligning more closely with Swanwick’s proposal that PGME often emulates apprenticeship-type learning [ 57 ]. It would be valuable to establish the efficacy of individualised PGME-based approaches to facilitating learning with dyscalculia from DiT and educator perspectives.

Greater educator support and training regarding dyscalculia is needed

Educators’ perceived need for wider awareness of dyscalculia, alongside greater pre-emptive training and guidance tailored towards dyscalculia within PGME learning environments has also been described for other SpLDs [ 23 , 58 , 59 ]. Greater research is needed to develop such awareness and evidence-based training, with similar needs identified more widely in HEI for dyscalculia [ 3 ] and for other SpLDs [ 23 , 24 , 27 ]. Akin to some participants, Swanwick and Morris [ 60 ] discuss the increasing expectations on clinical educationalists to deliver professional-level education and Sandhu [ 61 ] explores participants’ expressed need for greater faculty development whilst rectifying the deficit of evidence-base for PGME educators to use.

The crucial importance of the bidirectionality of the educator-learner relationship, with educators perceiving themselves as learners too, is only subtly alluded to elsewhere [ 3 ]. Given the bidirectional learning relationship was reportedly undermined by frequent DiT placement rotations, fast-paced clinical environments and shift-based training patterns, further exploration of the appropriateness of current UK PGME training design for DiT with dyscalculia could be important.

Coping strategies are important to better understand

As with this study, Drew’s research suggested coping strategies for learners with dyscalculia to be potentially important, effective and helpful but could have limitations [ 3 ]. However, this study provides the first examples of coping strategies, potential or already used, by DiT with dyscalculia. It is crucial that research to develop better understanding of both positive and negative dyscalculia-based coping mechanisms occurs in the future given the broad participant concerns.

Identification is key but not fully enabling

Educators perceived early identification of dyscalculia to be key, showing commonality with dyscalculia, dyslexia and dyspraxia-based studies [ 3 , 25 , 28 ]. That identification was not seen as an absolute solution reinforces the need for further research exploring other disabling factors. However, the witnessed or potential negatives of being ‘labelled’ following dyscalculia ‘diagnosis/identification’, outlined by some participants, have been found only minimally elsewhere within learner-based dyslexia and dyscalculia HEI studies [ 3 , 25 , 28 ]. Negative consequences to labelling included the attitudes learners encountered within the clinical community, suggesting a need to understand cultural norm-related impacts. In contrast, the far greater positives to identification, and the necessity of labelling perceived by educators, were also seen in other SpLD studies [ 3 , 25 , 28 ], enabling self-understanding and access to support. Certainly, the need for improved dyscalculia identification approaches and training is highlighted by the lack of educator confidence in identifying dyscalculia where they had no relative-based experience.

Within the UK, voluntary dyslexia ‘screening’ processes are now offered to some medical students and DiT and similar opportunities could be offered for dyscalculia in the future. Moreover, accumulating evidence indicates an ever-greater importance of establishing equity of learning opportunity and that identification has a positive performance effect for DiT with dyslexia [ 16 , 62 , 63 ].

The PGME clinical context may limit support

Whilst educators clearly adopted a strongly student-centred approach to supporting learning with dyscalculia, addressing the influence of the duality of clinical educator roles on this approach is important. Educator supportive intent was twinned with tension between balancing effective DiT learning with guaranteeing patient safety within diverse, predominantly clinical learning PGME environments, sharing commonalty with L’Ecuyer’s nursing study [ 23 ]. Swanwick and Morris [ 60 ] note this influence on delivering training, with Sandhu [ 61 ] exploring general concerns regarding risk and clinical learning.

Even more pronounced perceived patient safety concerns were expressed in other nursing SpLD studies [ 23 , 29 , 54 , 64 ], and further post-qualification independent working concerns emerged [ 23 , 65 , 66 ], which limited educators’ willingness to support learning. Together, these tensions appear to set learning facilitation for those with dyscalculia within healthcare apart from non-healthcare settings. Therefore, healthcare-specific education research and training is needed to address this, especially given thus far, analogous concerns regarding dyslexia and clinical risk remain unproven.

The influence of educator-reported increasing clinical workload and resource limitations on approach towards supporting DiT with dyscalculia was similarly seen within nursing studies [ 23 , 29 ]. Whilst the impact of clinical demands on UK-based educators are broadly known [ 67 ], greater recognition of the potentially disproportionately negative impact on DiT with dyscalculia needs to be made by those overseeing training delivery.

Uncertainty regarding reasonable adjustments need addressing

Additionally, whilst educators were generally supportive of RAs for DiT with dyscalculia, most intending these to be enabling, caveats to RA introduction were substantial for some. Concerns regarding RA implementation for DiT with dyscalculia were similar to nursing and wider HEI SpLD studies [ 24 , 66 ], but less common or absolute, most relating to feasibility, fairness and adverse impact on educators. These are important to explore if inclusivity in PGME is to be further embraced. Furthermore, and similarly to HEI findings [ 24 ], participant concerns about externally-mandated RAs derived from distant SpLD experts suggest that harnessing coproduction, with greater involvement of clinical educators in RA design, could be important for future endorsement. Additionally, whilst the scale of potential RA suggestions for dyscalculia made in this study is novel, it is important that the experiences of DiT with dyscalculia themselves are captured and used to ensure adjustments are truly enabling.

Therefore, whilst this study reveals important and novel discoveries relating to educators, PGME and dyscalculia, establishing DiT experiences of dyscalculia and PGME is the most crucial avenue of future research to next undertake to better understand and enable both DiT and educators to fulfil their roles effectively and inclusively.

Limitations

As a small, qualitative scoping study undertaken in Wales, study findings cannot and should not be generalisable. Seemingly the first study in this area, transferability should also be considered carefully. Due to purposive sampling, those volunteering may have been more interested in this topic; therefore, findings may not reflect the range of knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of all PGME educators.

Furthermore, use of interviews for data collection and the resultant lack of anonymity may have altered participant contributions. Moreover, despite adopting reflexivity, as a relatively inexperienced, sole researcher, I will have engaged in interviews and analysed data with intrinsic unconscious biases, introducing variability and affecting finding credibility. Despite methodological limitations within this small scoping study, my intention was to construct detailed understanding, providing a basis for future research.

This study reveals, seemingly for the first time, the attitudes, understanding and perceptions of PGME educators relating to DiT with dyscalculia. It highlights that lack of awareness and understanding of dyscalculia exists within the PGME educator community, especially in the absence of relatives with dyscalculia, and that widely accessible, evidence-based approaches to identification, support, teaching approaches and RA provisions are needed and wanted by PGME educators.

The rich stories of participants illuminate the emphasis educators place on experiential learning in informing their perceptions and training approaches, especially in the absence of prospective dyscalculia training or evidence base to draw upon. Given this, including the impact of limited or complete lack of dyscalculia experience and the substitution of generalisation to fill knowledge gaps found in this study, there is a real need for greater PGME-focused research to pre-emptively inform and support all educators.

Furthermore, greater acknowledgement and understanding of the seminal influence that clinical context has on educators, their attitudes towards supporting DiT with dyscalculia and the highly prized bidirectional learning relationships, as revealed in this study, are needed. It highlights the need for greater research to better understand the impact that specific nuances of PGME might have on educators’ support of DiT with dyscalculia and further characterise unmet needs. Future research must begin to address educator uncertainties revealed in this study around potential concerns relating to patient safety and care and differential approaches for dyscalculia and unfairness to other learners to move PGME forward in an effective, inclusive and enabling way.

Notable in this study is the lack of the learner voice, and future research needs to begin to better understand the perceptions and experiences of DiT with dyscalculia of PGME across a wide range of aspects. These could involve those suggested by participants, including DiT PGME learning and assessment experiences, coping strategies, reasonable adjustments and cultural norm impact. Furthermore, clarifying the wider awareness and knowledge levels of PGME educators regarding dyscalculia via more quantitative approaches could help build breadth to the understanding of this poorly understood phenomenon alongside the depth provided by this study.

Data availability

No datasets were generated or analysed during the current study.

Abbreviations

Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder

Doctors in Training

General Medical Council

Higher Education Institution

Health Education and Improvement Wales

Postgraduate Medical Education

Professional Support Unit

Reasonable Adjustment

Reflexive Thematic Analysis

Specific Learning Difference

United Kingdom

Zone of Proximal Development

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Acknowledgements

LJC would like to thank her academic supervisor Ms Helen Pugsley, Centre for Medical Education at Cardiff University, for her guidance and encouragement during LJC’s Masters project. LJC would also like to thank all the interview participants who took an active part in shaping this project. LJC is extremely grateful for their time, honesty and for providing such vivid and illuminating windows into their roles as educators. LJC would also like to thank Dr Colette McNulty, Dr Helen Baker and wider staff members at HEIW for their support in circulating her study invitation to trainers across Wales.

LJC did not receive any funding for, or as part of, the research project described in this paper.

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LJC designed and undertook the entirety of the research project described in this paper. She also wrote this paper in entirety.

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This study received ethical approval from Cardiff University’s Medical Ethics Committee. After discussions, it was felt that NHS Research Ethics Committee approval was not needed. Written and verbally informed consent to participate was obtained, with prospective participants being provided with information regarding the study and their rights at least three weeks before interviews took place.

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Research participants gave written and verbal consent for the contents of their interviews to be analysed and reported as part of this study.

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LJC is currently a final year GP registrar working in Wales with keen interests in differential attainment, inclusivity within education and civil learning environments. This paper is borne from a project she designed and undertook as part of her Masters in Medical Education at Cardiff University.

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Cheetham, L.J. “Because people don’t know what it is, they don’t really know it exists” : a qualitative study of postgraduate medical educators’ perceptions of dyscalculia. BMC Med Educ 24 , 896 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-05912-2

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Received : 27 November 2023

Accepted : 14 August 2024

Published : 20 August 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-05912-2

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