critiquing a qualitative research study
Title: “Visibility and Transmission: Complexities around Promoting Hand Hygiene in Young Children: A Qualitative Study”
Introduction:
The study examines how to promote hand hygiene among young children. This study aims to determine the facilitators and barriers for hand hygiene promotion amongst young children. Researchers used a qualitative design to collect data from stakeholders.
What are the steps of qualitative research?
Researchers have identified the facilitators and barriers to hand hygiene promotion among young children.
Research Design: Researchers used a qualitative design of research, more specifically an interpretive-descriptive approach.
Purposive sampling was used by the researchers to select participants. Sample size: 32 participants including parents, health professionals, and educators.
Researchers used semistructured interviews for data collection. To obtain additional data, they also held a discussion in a parent focus group.
Data Analysis: Researchers used thematic analyses to analyse the data from semi-structured interview and focus group discussions.
Results: According to the study, barriers that prevent children from washing their hands include lack of handwashing facilities and education, as well as competing priorities. The study found that positive reinforcement, healthy role models, and fun hand washing were facilitators.
Determine the Strengths and Weaknesses in Qualitative Research:
Strengths:
- Purposive sampling was used to make sure that the participants knew about the subject being studied.
- Participants provided rich, detailed information through semi-structured interviewing and focus groups.
- Thematic analysis allowed for the identification of common themes in the data.
Weaknesses:
- It is possible that the results are not generalisable because the sample size of this study was small.
- The research was done in only one environment, which could limit its transferability to other situations.
- This study didn’t explore perspectives from children, so it may be difficult to understand barriers and facilitators in their eyes.
How to evaluate a qualitative study:
- The research question is it clear and relevant?
The research question has been clearly defined and is appropriate. The research question is clear and specific, and it focuses on barriers and facilitators in promoting hand washing among young children.
- Does the design of the study fit the question being asked?
The research design fits the question. A qualitative design and an interpretive-descriptive approach allows for a more in-depth examination of barriers to hand hygiene promotion amongst young children.
- Is the sampling technique appropriate?
Purposive sampling is a good method for this type of study, as it allows participants to be well-informed about the subject being researched. The sample size is relatively small and may have limited the generalizability.
- Is the method of data collection appropriate?
It was appropriate to use semi-structured interviews as well as focus groups for this research, since it provided rich data from participants.
- The data analysis technique was it appropriate?
It was a good idea to use thematic analysis for this research, as it allowed us to find common themes in the data.
- The study was rigorously conducted.
In order to establish rigor, the study asked its participants to verify the accuracy of their findings. But the study failed to mention any other method of establishing rigor. For example, peer debriefing and triangulation.
- The data is it supported?
The data supports the conclusions. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings were then based upon these common themes.
- Do the findings justify the conclusions?
The findings justify the conclusions. Researchers identified barriers and facilitators in promoting good hand hygiene with young people.