Research method used in the Tobiano, Ting, Ryan, Jenkinson, Scott, & Marshall (2019) article
This assignment involves identifying and describing different elements of the research method used in the Tobiano, Ting, Ryan, Jenkinson, Scott, & Marshall (2019) article.
Focus on the research design, sample selection, data collection methods, and plan for data analysis as discussed in the Tobiano, Ting, Ryan, Jenkinson, Scott, & Marshall (2019) article.
Identify at least two strengths and two weaknesses of the article’s research method based on trustworthiness. You must provide support for your explanation with citations from additional sources.
Use the Journal Club Template for Qualitative Research located in this week’s resources. Note: This will not be accepted unless the required template is used.
The template includes an area for each element discussed in the study.
Be brief, paraphrase and summarize each of the elements clearly on the form.
Research Design:
The research design used in the Tobiano, Ting, Ryan, Jenkinson, Scott, & Marshall (2019) article is a qualitative research design. It employs a phenomenological approach to understand the experiences and perceptions of nurses caring for patients with complex wounds.
Sample Selection:
The sample selection process in the study involved purposeful sampling. The researchers selected registered nurses working in specialized wound care settings who had experience in caring for patients with complex wounds. They aimed to include a diverse range of participants to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon under investigation.
Data Collection Methods:
The researchers collected data through semi-structured interviews. They conducted face-to-face interviews with the participants, using an interview guide to ensure consistency across interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim for analysis.
Plan for Data Analysis:
The data analysis in this study followed a thematic analysis approach. The researchers identified common themes and patterns in the transcribed interviews and developed a coding framework. They then applied this framework to the data, systematically coding and categorizing the information to identify key themes and sub-themes related to the experiences of nurses caring for patients with complex wounds.
Strengths of the Research Method:
In-depth understanding: The qualitative research design allowed for a rich and detailed exploration of the experiences and perceptions of nurses caring for patients with complex wounds. The use of semi-structured interviews provided an opportunity for participants to share their unique insights and perspectives.
Rigorous data analysis: The thematic analysis approach employed in this study was systematic and rigorous. The researchers used a well-defined coding framework to ensure consistency and objectivity in the analysis process. This helped enhance the trustworthiness of the findings.
Weaknesses of the Research Method:
Potential for researcher bias: Despite efforts to maintain objectivity, there is always a possibility of researcher bias in qualitative research. The researchers' preconceived notions or beliefs may have influenced the interpretation of the data, potentially leading to biased findings.
Generalizability: Qualitative research is typically focused on specific contexts and individuals, making it challenging to generalize the findings to broader populations or settings. The sample size in this study was relatively small, limiting the transferability of the findings to other nursing contexts.
Support for Strengths and Weaknesses:
In discussing the strengths of qualitative research, Creswell (2014) emphasizes that it allows for an in-depth exploration of phenomena, providing rich descriptions and insights that quantitative methods may not capture adequately.
On the weakness related to potential researcher bias, Morse (2015) highlights that qualitative researchers should be aware of their own biases and take steps to minimize subjectivity during data collection and analysis.
Regarding generalizability, Patton (2015) explains that qualitative research aims for in-depth understanding rather than generalizability. It focuses on context-specific findings that can inform theory development and contribute to existing knowledge.
References:
Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (4th ed.). Sage Publications.
Morse, J. M. (2015). Critical analysis of strategies for determining rigor in qualitative inquiry. Qualitative health research, 25(9), 1212-1222.
Patton, M. Q. (2015). Qualitative research & evaluation methods: Integrating theory and practice (4th ed.). Sage Publications.