Basic Qualitative Toolkit
If you’re just getting started, we recommend you begin with Protocol Design and Choosing the Right Method.
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Privacy and confidentiality
An FAQ by the Government of Canada (as part of TCPS 2) discussing legal considerations related to research practices and their implications on study design.
Qualitative Data Analysis - Comparison Chart
An accessible and detailed chart showing the pros and cons of different software. Use this to pick the ideal tool, access software tutorials, and find relevant resources.
Qualitative Data Analysis Methods: Top 6 + Examples
An article overviewing six foundational qualitative analysis methodologies, with example videos and guidance for choosing the right method.
Qualitative interview techniques
An online textbook chapter providing a detailed overview of qualitative interviews, with step-by-step instructions on how to create an effective interview guide.
Reflective Writing
A short video providing a basic introduction to reflective writing. Provides a step-by-step guide to the reflective process alongside example excerpts.
Reflexivity for interpretive researchers
A blog post providing a detailed introduction to reflexivity and techniques that support reflexivity in the research process (with applied examples).
Research design and research methods
A book chapter comparing quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research designs. The chapter emphasizes characteristics that make “good research.”
Safety guide for conducting community based research
An accessible guide on safety considerations for community-based researchers, discussing topics from the weather to emotional wellbeing.
Sampling Methods and Bias with Surveys: Crash Course Statistics #10
A crash course on common survey sampling methods and related biases. Presented in a fun, accessible, and engaging way!
Stakeholder mapping and analysis
A short article overviewing how to identify stakeholders and their relationship to the project. Includes a stakeholder assessment tool with an applied example.
Survey Question Sequence, Flow, & Style Tips
An article discussing practical considerations for question ordering and flow, with discussion on how to limit bias in responses.
Survey sampling methods
A short and straightforward lesson on key concepts for survey sampling methods and an overview of related statistical parameters (includes text and a video).
Systemic social observation of civil society
A lecture on systematic social observation (SSO) and how this tool was adapted to collect comparable data from civil society organizations.
Ten key steps to writing a protocol for a qualitative research study
A step-by-step guide to develop a research protocol for a qualitative study, with an applied example and key considerations.
The Non-Monogamy Letters
A series of letter exchanges between researchers across continents, this artistic piece provides a creative and challenging example of the process of “writing with.”
The problem-centered interview
A detailed yet accessible article providing a basic introduction to problem-centered interviews, with discussion on appropriate instruments and analysing results.
The use of incentives in research
A short blog post discussing different approaches to incentivize research participants. Includes ethical considerations on different approaches.
Transparency and positionality in qualitative team coding
Practical approaches to promote transparency and positionality in team coding, with an introduction to the “Living Codebook.”
Trauma informed interviewing techniques
A guide for interviewing individuals who have experienced trauma. Includes a series of videos, a written guide, a set of reflection questions, and links to further resources.
Turning critique into promise: How situationalism can aid qualitative interviewing
A detailed lecture overviewing an interactionist/situationist critique of qualitative interviews and providing practical advice for interviewing.
