ABSTRACT

Qualitative researchers incorporate the principles of holism, storytelling, ethics, body and mind links, relational focus, and creativity as key features of their practice. So do practitioners of Zen Buddhism. Leading qualitative researcher Valerie J. Janesick describes how qualitative inquiry can be informed and improved through an understanding of Zen principles. She calls for a contemplative qualitative inquiry that draws on the understandings of both East and West. In the book, she-explains how key Zen principles of impermanence, non-self, and nirvana apply to qualitative research projects;-advocates important Zen-based practices of meditation, journaling, and poetic thinking;-presents Zen stories, meditation techniques, and writing exercises to improve research practice.

chapter Chapter One|21 pages

About Zen and Contemplative Inquiry

chapter Chapter Two|11 pages

Impermanence and Observation

chapter Chapter Three|14 pages

Non-Self and Interviews

chapter Chapter Five|9 pages

Documents, Photographs, and Artifacts

chapter Chapter Six|17 pages

Nirvana and Writing Up Qualitative Research

chapter Chapter Seven|17 pages

Poetry, Zen, and Qualitative Research

chapter Chapter Nine|11 pages

Satori, Zenergy, and Understanding