Open AccessA Pattern-Generating Tool for Use in Semi-Structured Interviews
Author(s) -
Garth Paine
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
the qualitative report
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2160-3715
DOI - 10.46743/2160-3715/2015.2123
Subject(s) - computer science , development (topology) , outcome (game theory) , qualitative research , pattern language (formal languages) , measure (data warehouse) , data science , research development , management science , psychology , artificial intelligence , sociology , data mining , engineering , mathematics , social science , mathematical analysis , paleontology , test (biology) , mathematical economics , biology
This paper, the first in a pair, describes the development and use of a research tool designed to not only derive the “usual” research patterns from analysis and synthesis of data, but also to extend that research outcome into useful lessons and instructions for others to act on in the non-research world. Research is essentially about finding and explaining patterns to help us understand phenomena and to measure similarities and differences. Pattern also has other useful attributes – as tools, templates, and instructive advices – that tend not to be given as much attention in research. The tool discussed in this paper seeks an easy-to-use “close fit” between these two uses of pattern. It enabled maximum engagement by the research participants, in-depth exploration of the area between the abstract (theory) and the concrete (practice) of the issue at hand, and development of useful instructive advices for others to use. It comprises an original design that can be adapted for use in other research with similar aims. A second paper, in a subsequent edition of The Qualitative Report, describes the development of the subsequent “pattern language” of instructive advices.