Information categorized as qualitative describes attributes or characteristics. This type of data is descriptive and conceptual, focusing on understanding the ‘why’ behind phenomena. Examples include interview transcripts, observational field notes, and focus group discussions, which offer rich narratives and insights into experiences, opinions, and behaviors. Numerical values and quantitative metrics are outside the scope of qualitative inquiry.
The significance of gathering descriptive information lies in its ability to provide nuanced insights that quantitative methods may overlook. It allows researchers to explore complex social phenomena, understand cultural contexts, and generate hypotheses for further investigation. Historically, qualitative methods have been instrumental in fields like sociology, anthropology, and psychology, providing a foundational understanding of human experiences and social structures.
