Qualitative research

Qualitative research is the preferred method of researchin most setting, so much that when we talk of research,most people presume that we are referring to quantitative research. It has been claimed that:"The almost sole recognition given to quantitative methods has trained students inadequately, establishedflawed standards of practice and research, and delayedthe development of essential medical knowledge....When qualitative methods are clearly established in ourresearch repertoire, the advance of medical knowledgew i l l b e g r e a t l y a c c e l e r a t e d " . 1However in social sciences and in areas like a thirdworld country where most issues are unexplored, phenomena un-understood and questions unanswered,qualitative research, which has become more popularsince the 1970s can be really helpful as it is particularlydirected on:1. Exploring issues2. Understanding phenomena3. Answering Questions