What does the diversity of qualitative methods encompass?

The diversity of qualitative methods encompasses the use of both deductive and inductive reasoning approaches, which are fundamental to the nature of qualitative research. Deductive reasoning involves starting with a general theory or hypothesis and testing it against specific observations, while inductive reasoning focuses on developing theories based on the findings from gathered data. This flexibility allows qualitative researchers to explore and understand complex social phenomena in depth, capturing the richness of individual experiences and perspectives.

In qualitative research, inductive reasoning is often emphasized as it aligns with the exploratory nature of qualitative inquiry, where researchers aim to generate new insights and understandings without imposing preconceived frameworks. Deductive reasoning can also play a role, particularly when testing existing theories in specific contexts. Thus, the inclusion of both reasoning types reflects the breadth of qualitative methods and their adaptability in addressing various research questions.