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The qualitative research audit trail: A complex collection of documentation
Author(s) -
Rodgers Beth L.,
Cowles Kathleen V.
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
research in nursing and health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.836
H-Index - 85
eISSN - 1098-240X
pISSN - 0160-6891
DOI - 10.1002/nur.4770160309
Subject(s) - documentation , audit , qualitative research , data collection , context (archaeology) , trustworthiness , audit trail , data science , computer science , psychology , sociology , internet privacy , business , geography , accounting , social science , archaeology , programming language
A qualitative study typically involves a large volume of researcher‐generated data, including notes about the context of the study, methodological decisions, data analysis procedures, and self‐awareness of the researcher. Such data are important in many aspects of the study, particularly in the development of an audit trail to substantiate trustworthiness. Unfortunately, there is little information available to assist researchers in generating the needed documentation. In this article, we discuss the types of data that contribute to credible investigations. Strategies for maintaining effective records in qualitative studies are included, along with examples from our own research. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.