The Use of Archived Research Data in the Training of Qualitative Research Methods—Concept and Evaluation of a Pilot Model for Learning that is Closely Linked to Research

Abstract

Digital archiving of qualitative research data together with the progress made in software-based data analysis provides the opportunity to re-use data for a training scheme that is closely related to research in the qualitative social sciences. Archived data can be used as material for demonstration and analysis and can thus facilitate a deeper insight into qualitative research methodology. The use of the concept of "blended learning" linking face-to-face teaching with elements of e-learning can be of advantage for the training of methods that is closely related to research. It ensures both professional tutoring by a teacher and independent research work by the students. The article presents the concept and the evaluation results of a training and learning model the Life-Course-Archive of the Graduate School of Social Sciences (GSSS) at the University of Bremen developed for the use of archived interview data in the training of qualitative research methods. The pilot model with its focus on the approach for the analysis of problem-centered interviews is geared to the concept of blended learning. Testing and evaluation took place within a pilot course of the project mobileCampus carried out in the psychology department at the University of Bremen. The training and learning model for learning that is closely linked to research of the Life-Course-Archive is put up for discussion within the FQS Debate on "Teaching and Learning Qualitative Research Methods in the Social Sciences" (http://www.qualitative-research.net/fqs-texte/a5b6c7/07-3-15-d.htm). In addition, the article itself is to serve as a contribution to this discussion. URN: urn:nbn:de:0114-fqs0703152