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Strengths and weaknesses of qualitative research in social science studies

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  • Kelvin Mwita

    (Department of Public Services and Human Resource Management, Mzumbe University, P. O Box 1, Mzumbe - Tanzania)

Abstract

This study aimed at examining the strengths and weaknesses of qualitative research in social science studies. The study conducted a systematic literature review of 22 published journal articles to achieve the objective. The review revealed that the qualitative approach was flexible, offered in-depth and detailed information, allowed the use of multiple data collection methods and minimised the chance of having missing data. Moreover, the approach was found to integrate human touch, was cost-effective and was indeed the only option in some cases of research problems. On the other hand, the approach is prone to researchers’ subjectivity, involves complex data analysis, makes anonymity difficult and has limited scope in its generalizability. Similarly, the approach makes replication of findings challenging, and the findings may be influenced by the researcher’s bias. It is concluded, therefore, that researchers should take necessary precautions when using the approach to ensure that weaknesses of qualitative research do not bar them from achieving research objectives. Key Words:qualitative research, constructivists, positivist paradigm, critical paradigm, interpretative paradigm

Suggested Citation

  • Kelvin Mwita, 2022. "Strengths and weaknesses of qualitative research in social science studies," International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), Center for the Strategic Studies in Business and Finance, vol. 11(6), pages 618-625, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:rbs:ijbrss:v:11:y:2022:i:6:p:618-625
    DOI: 10.20525/ijrbs.v11i6.1920
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kelvin Mwita, 2022. "Factors influencing data saturation in qualitative studies," International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), Center for the Strategic Studies in Business and Finance, vol. 11(4), pages 414-420, June.
    2. Haradhan Kumar MOHAJAN, 2018. "Qualitative research methodology in social sciences and related subjects," Journal of Economic Development, Environment and People, Alliance of Central-Eastern European Universities, vol. 7(1), pages 23-48, March.
    3. Kelvin Mwita, 2022. "Factors to consider when choosing data collection methods," International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), Center for the Strategic Studies in Business and Finance, vol. 11(5), pages 532-538, July.
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    Cited by:

    1. Peng Sun & Xiaode Zuo, 2024. "Philosophical Foundations of Management Research: A Comprehensive Review," Journal of Scientific Reports, IJSAB International, vol. 6(1), pages 1-22.

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