Purpose Statement in Qualitative Research

A purpose statement in qualitative research is a concise statement that outlines the objectives and intent of the study. It serves as a roadmap for the entire research process, guiding the researcher’s approach, methods, and analysis. The purpose statement should be clear, specific, and aligned with the identified problem and research gap.

Key Elements of a Purpose Statement

1. Observable Behaviors

   The purpose statement should refer to observable behaviors and be specific enough to guide the planning and conduct of the research. It should articulate the intended outcomes or changes that the study aims to achieve.

2. Intent of the Study

   The purpose statement establishes the intent of the entire research study. It communicates the researcher’s overall goal and the desired contribution of the study to the field of knowledge.

3. Alignment with Problem and Gap

   The purpose statement should align with the identified problem and address the research gap. It should demonstrate how the study will contribute to filling the gap in knowledge or understanding.

4. Methodology Alignment

   The purpose statement should match the chosen research methodology, whether qualitative or quantitative. The research verbs used in the statement should reflect the intended approach and methods.

5. Research Verbs

   Quantitative studies often involve “closed-ended” research verbs like determine, measure, correlate, explain, compare, validate, identify, or examine. Qualitative studies often involve “open-ended” research verbs like explore, understand, narrate, articulate, discover, or develop.

Crafting a Purpose Statement

1. Start with a Strong Hook

   Begin the purpose statement with a compelling hook that captures the reader’s attention and sets the stage for the study.

2. Clearly Define the Research Problem

   Briefly state the research problem or issue that the study aims to address. Provide enough context to situate the study within the broader field of knowledge.

3. Specify the Research Objectives

   Articulate the specific objectives or goals of the study. These objectives should be measurable and achievable within the scope of the research.

4. Identify the Research Methodology

   Clearly state the research methodology that will be employed in the study. Specify whether it is a qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods approach.

5. Outline the Research Methods

   Briefly describe the methods that will be used to collect and analyze data. This may include interviews, observations, surveys, or document analysis.

6. Define the Study Population and Context

   Specify the participants or population that will be involved in the study. Describe the context or setting in which the research will take place.

7. Conclude with a Clear Statement of Intent

   Summarize the overall intent of the study and reiterate the expected outcomes or contributions.

Examples of Purpose Statements

1. Qualitative Study

   “The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the lived experiences of individuals who have recovered from addiction and to understand the factors that contribute to their successful recovery.”

2. Quantitative Study

   “The purpose of this quantitative study is to examine the relationship between job satisfaction and employee productivity in the technology industry. The study aims to determine whether there is a positive correlation between job satisfaction and productivity and to identify the factors that contribute to this relationship.”

3. Mixed Methods Study

   “The purpose of this mixed methods study is to investigate the impact of a new educational intervention on student learning outcomes. The study will employ both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data on student achievement, attitudes, and perceptions.”

In conclusion, a well-crafted purpose statement is essential for guiding and focusing qualitative research. It provides a clear roadmap for the study, ensuring that the research process is aligned with the intended objectives and contributes meaningfully to the field of knowledge.

FAQs

What is a purpose statement in qualitative research?

A purpose statement in qualitative research is a concise statement that outlines the objectives and intent of the study. It serves as a roadmap for the entire research process, guiding the researcher’s approach, methods, and analysis.

What are the key elements of a purpose statement in qualitative research?

Key elements of a purpose statement in qualitative research include:

• Observable behaviors: The statement should refer to observable behaviors and be specific enough to guide the study.
• Intent of the study: The statement should establish the overall intent and desired contribution of the study.
• Alignment with problem and gap: The statement should align with the identified problem and address the research gap.
• Methodology alignment: The statement should match the chosen research methodology and reflect the intended approach and methods.

How to craft a purpose statement for qualitative research?

To craft a purpose statement for qualitative research, consider the following steps:

• Start with a strong hook to capture the reader’s attention.
• Clearly define the research problem or issue.
• Specify the research objectives or goals.
• Identify the research methodology (e.g., ethnography, phenomenology, grounded theory).
• Outline the research methods (e.g., interviews, observations, document analysis).
• Define the study population and context.
• Conclude with a clear statement of intent and expected outcomes.

What are some examples of purpose statements in qualitative research?

Examples of purpose statements in qualitative research include:

• “To explore the lived experiences of individuals who have recovered from addiction and to understand the factors that contribute to their successful recovery.”
• “To investigate the impact of a new educational intervention on student learning outcomes, using both quantitative and qualitative methods.”
• “To examine the relationship between job satisfaction and employee productivity in the technology industry, identifying factors that contribute to this relationship.”

Why is a purpose statement important in qualitative research?

A purpose statement is important in qualitative research because it:

• Provides a clear roadmap for the study, ensuring alignment with intended objectives.
• Guides the researcher’s approach, methods, and analysis throughout the research process.
• Helps to ensure that the study contributes meaningfully to the field of knowledge.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a purpose statement for qualitative research?

Common mistakes to avoid when writing a purpose statement for qualitative research include:

• Being too vague or general.
• Including personal opinions or biases.
• Using jargon or technical terms that may not be familiar to a general audience.
• Making claims that are too broad or unrealistic.

How long should a purpose statement be?

The length of a purpose statement can vary depending on the nature and scope of the study. However, it should generally be concise and to the point, typically ranging from one to three sentences.

Where should the purpose statement be placed in a qualitative research paper?

The purpose statement is typically placed in the introduction section of a qualitative research paper. It should come after the problem statement or research question and provide a clear overview of the study’s intent and objectives.