Debating Structured vs. Unstructured Methods

This week, you have learned about the characteristics of structured and unstructured approaches in qualitative research. For this Discussion, you will compare the advantages and disadvantages of each approach and discuss the merits of each.

To prepare for this Discussion:

•Consider what you have learned in your research courses about planning out the methodology for a research design. As you may recall, a structured or predetermined approach has been advocated in most, if not all, of your research textbooks up to this point.

•Review Chapter 5 in Qualitative Research Design: An Interactive Approach. In this chapter, Maxwell mentions the differences between a structured and an unstructured approach to qualitative methods. To what extent do you agree with the point of view that an unstructured approach to qualitative methods can be desirable? Under what circumstances might this be true?
With these thoughts in mind:

THE ASSIGNMENT
Write a response of 3 paragraphs comprising your position in this debate of the merits of structured vs. unstructured methods for qualitative research. Be sure to include direct references to Maxwell and/or Miles & Huberman either to indicate agreement with or refutation of a stance.

When appropriate, be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the reading(s) and/or video program(s), using APA format.