nicole kotras masters thesis

Although qualitative research has received criticism largely regarding its limitations
for generalizability, replicability and researcher bias, these are outweighed by its many
advantages, which made it more pertinent for the initial component of this study (i.e., the
exploratory phase) (McGiugan, 1990). The advantages include the fact that deliberate
avoidance of predetermined research hypotheses and theories, enables the researcher to
identify unanticipated outcomes. This in turn ensures that the richness, quality and depth of
data is maximised and preserved (Geertz, 1973). Also advantageous, is that validity checks
are included in qualitative research (Marshall & Rossman, 1989).
Because qualitative studies often forfeit the rigor of statistically-based checks and
hypotheses, they can yield interesting descriptions which nevertheless lack convincing
evidence. To counteract this methodological weakness, a quantitative stage was used in the
second phase of the study.
Participants
For the qualitative component of the study, non-probability sampling, specifically
purposive sampling was employed. Purposive sampling involves the researchers using their
own judgement about which respondents to choose, and selecting only those who best meet
the purpose of the study. The advantage of purposive sampling is that the researchers can
use their research skills and prior knowledge to select respondents appropriately (Bailey,
1987). The resultant population consisted of the executive committee members of the
Association for Research in Infant and Child Development (ARICD) in the United Kingdom.
Additionally 17 “expert” Griffith's users and “lay-experts” working in early child development
throughout South Africa, were included in the exploratory stage of the study. The
participants were asked to comment on the cultural appropriateness and relevance of the 20
small revised experimental pictures and the large revised experimental pictures.
Measure
Letters were sent to the selected participants. An open-ended questionnaire was
utilized for the qualitative component of the study (See Appendix A for the questionnaire &
cover letters). The questionnaire was constructed with three open-ended questions
pertaining to the 2 large revised experimental pictures (one having a contemporary South
African focus, and the other a contemporary British/European/Australian focus) and the 20
small revised experimental pictures, as discussed in Stage 1 below.
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