Qualitative Methods in Education Research

About this Course

About the Course

In this course, Professor Liz Atkins (University of Derby) explores qualitative research methods and their application to education. In the first lecture, we consider some challenges and practical issues associated with qualitative research, notably around ensuring that it is rigorous. In the second lecture, we look at literature reviews, their importance, and how they are conducted. In the third lecture, we examine ethical issues in qualitative research. Next, we explore how to construct a sample and negotiate access to participants. In the fifth lecture, we survey key qualitative data-collection methods, including interviews and observations. In the sixth lecture, we look at questionnaires. In the seventh and final lecture, we conclude with a discussion of how to analyse qualitative data and ensure that research reports are clear and engaging.

About the Lecturer

Professor Liz Atkins is Professor of Vocational Education and Social Justice at the University of Derby. She has a broad expertise within the field of education, specialising particularly in vocational education and working with low-attaining young people, and she has also written widely on methodological issues within education research. Her publications include Education, Skills and Social Justice in a Polarising World (2022, co-author), Research Methods for Social Justice and Equity in Education (2019, co-author), and Qualitative Research in Education (2012, co-author).