ABSTRACT
The importance and utility of qualitative research has long been recognized in the field of second language studies. This chapter begins with a discussion of the nature of qualitative research and how it differs from other approaches. Next, commonly used methods for gathering qualitative data are outlined, including case studies, ethnographies, interviews, observational techniques, verbal protocols, and diaries/journals. We conclude with a discussion of practical considerations in conducting and analyzing qualitative research, including issues such as credibility, transferability, dependability, triangulation, and quantification. We continue the discussion of qualitative research in Chapter 9 where we focus on mixed methods.
