Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

Which method is commonly used to gather data in qualitative research?

1. Experiments

2. Focus groups

3. Meta analyses

4. Quantitative measures

The correct answer is: Focus groups

Focus groups are a widely utilized method in qualitative research because they allow researchers to gather diverse perspectives and insights from participants in an interactive setting. This technique involves facilitating discussions among a small group of individuals, typically guided by a researcher, to explore their thoughts, opinions, and experiences related to a specific topic. This method is particularly valuable for capturing nuanced information that may not be revealed through more structured quantitative methods. The dynamic interaction among participants can lead to richer data as individuals build on each other’s ideas, providing context and depth that enhance understanding of the research problem. In contrast, experiments are typically associated with quantitative research as they seek to test hypotheses under controlled conditions. Meta analyses involve statistical techniques to synthesize findings from multiple studies, which also leans heavily on quantitative data. Lastly, quantitative measures focus on numerical data and trends rather than the detailed, subjective insights that qualitative research aims to uncover.