WRITING A GOOD READ - STRATEGIES FOR RE-PRESENTING QUALITATIVE DATA

One key element in the successful dissemination and utilization of qua litative findings is the well-written research report. In contrast to quantitative research, there is no one style for reporting the finding s from qualitative research. Qualitative researchers must select from an array of representational styles and formats those that best fit th eir research purposes, methods, and data. Qualitative researchers must attend to the balance among description, analysis, and interpretation , choose whether to emphasize character, setting, or plot, determine w hose perspectives or voices will prevail, and treat metaphors seriousl y. Strategies for re-presenting qualitative data include using time, t heme, sensitizing concepts, and coding families. (C) 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.