ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses narrative inquiry, a qualitative approach centered on the study of stories. It outlines how narrative inquiry examines the ways individuals and groups make sense of events through storytelling. The chapter begins with theoretical foundations, including social constructionist and interpretive views that narratives shape identity and knowledge. Methodologically, it covers how to collect narrative data (through life-history interviews, oral histories, story circles, diaries, etc.) and how to analyze narratives using structural (e.g., Labov’s model) and thematic methods. Applications are illustrated in both organizational research (like employees sharing corporate culture stories) and digital contexts (such as personal blogs or social media narratives). The chapter emphasizes ethical considerations (ownership of stories and representation) and highlights how narrative inquiry can empower participants by honoring their voices while revealing insights about culture, memory, and sensemaking within communities.
