Providing (Online) Resources and Services for Qualitative Researchers: Challenges and Potentials

Abstract

The increased acceptance and use of qualitative research methods led to different national efforts to provide services for qualitative researchers. In this article it is argued that at least three kinds of services appear to be essential, integrating online and offline tools in some ways: a) supporting the archiving of primary data and the access to databases for re-analysis of qualitative data; b) consulting in questions of qualitative research and teaching; and c) providing information, communication and publishing bases and possibilities of knowledge sharing, management, and distribution. Since qualitative research is truly a transdisciplinary effort, a close collaboration beyond disciplinary borders is necessary. Additionally—in view of scarce resources and possible synergy effects as well—it is suggested to intensify already existing networking between different national centers, i.e. to inform each other about the state of work and future plans, to share and coordinate resources and services already available, and to delegate some tasks that are expensive if provided on a national level for an international audience. URN: urn:nbn:de:0114-fqs0502388