Why Research Design Is Where Rigor Begins August 5, 2026 Say Yes to New Adventures Once a researcher has finally narrowed a topic into a clear, well-defined research question, there is a strong pull toward momentum. The hard intellectual work of narrowing feels finished, and the instinct is to move ...
From Topic to Researchable Question: Why the Literature Comes Before the Focus July 8, 2026 Say Yes to New Adventures Most researchers do not arrive at a research topic through a gap in the literature. They arrive through something they have experienced: a problem they encountered at work, a pattern...
“I Don’t Feel Like a Real Researcher Yet” Confidence, Identity, & Qualitative Work May 20, 2026 One of the most common, but least discussed, sticking points in qualitative research has little to do with methods, data, or analysis. It has to do with identity. Many novice qualitative researchers quiet...
Listening Like a Qualitative Researcher: October 16, 2025 Tips for Engaging with Stories, Experiences, and Meaning In our last post, we explored why listening is more than just hearing words; it’s about engaging deeply with stories, experiences, and meanings. This kind of listening is essential for ...
Listening as a Bridge: Qualitative Skills for a Polarized World October 01, 2025 A new report on free speech in higher education delivered some sobering news: most U.S. colleges received an “F” for their speech climate, and students across the political spectrum are increasingly unwilling to hear vi...