The Uses of Qualitative Research: Powerful Methods to Inform Evidence-Based Practice in Education. (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kozleski, Elizabeth B.
• Other Names: Singer George H. S. guest-editor.; Agran Martin guest-editor.; Spooner Fred guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Research and practice for persons with severe disabilities. Volume 42:Number 1(2017)
• Page Start: 19
• Page End: 32
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: disabilities -- qualitative research -- evidence-based practice -- improvement science; People with disabilities -- Periodicals; Developmentally disabled -- Periodicals; People with mental disabilities -- Periodicals; 305.908
• DOI: 10.1177/1540796916683710
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1540-7969

Abstract

This article offers a rationale for the contributions of qualitative research to evidence-based practice in special education. In it, I make the argument that qualitative research encompasses the ability to study significant problems of practice, engage with practitioners in the conduct of research studies, learn and change processes during a study, and provide expansive data sets that help clarify both independent and dependent variables. Qualitative methodologies can shape and advance important questions of educational practice and policy. The concern with the degree to which qualitative research can contribute to the research base may be a reflection of the degree to which our field as a whole adequately prepares its researchers to understand and engage in high-quality qualitative research that adheres to benchmarks for internal and external validity from inception through dissemination of results.