Qualitative Research and the Internet: Methods and Challenges

Author

Department of Library and Information Science, Al-Zahra University

Abstract

Research methods can be categorized in different ways. Quantitative and qualitative research, however, are two main terms, among others, for this purpose. Women and family studies researchers are among those who use not only quantitative methods but qualitative research as well. In particular, this mcludes the method of "deep interview". In 'the light of growth and velopment of networks and the Internet, researchers are using these .echnologies for collecting data. This paper will explore the role of the Internet in collecting rich and valuable ta by researchers using qualitative methods, specially "deep interview". In sing the Internet, ethical issues, secrecy and privacy, legal and security ncems as well as theoretical framework ruling data collection in virtual Ironment are among challenges that will be discussed.

Keywords