Kvalitatiiv

Kvalitatiiv is a term derived from the Latin word "qualitas," meaning quality or characteristic. In various academic and research contexts, it refers to methods, approaches, or data that explore the nature, qualities, or characteristics of phenomena rather than their quantity or magnitude. This contrasts with quantitative approaches, which focus on numerical measurement and statistical analysis.

Qualitative research often involves in-depth interviews, focus groups, observations, and content analysis to understand underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations. The data collected is typically non-numerical, such as descriptions, narratives, or interpretations. The goal is to gain a rich and nuanced understanding of a subject from the perspective of those experiencing it.

Qualitative methods are employed across disciplines like sociology, anthropology, psychology, and education. They are particularly useful for exploring complex social issues, understanding individual experiences, and generating hypotheses for further quantitative study. The interpretation of qualitative data relies heavily on the researcher's analytical skills and understanding of the context. The emphasis is on depth of understanding rather than breadth of measurement.