Qualitative research is indispensable for the study of inequalities and for work in essential structures such as education, health and social services. However, the quality of ethnographic studies and interviews varies, and researchers may find it difficult to identify which of these studies are empirically valid. The course will introduce five key indicators of quality in qualitative field research cognitive empathy, heterogeneity, tangibility, follow-up and self-awareness. It will also offer participants the opportunity to practise evaluating qualitative research on the basis of these indicators.

The Masterclass is particularly focused on research in the fields of education, health and social services, but can also be useful for researchers, students, policy-makers and those working in the media field.

Speaker

Jessica McCrory Calarco is an expert on education, families and health decision-making. Her award-winning research reveals how power and privilege structures maintain socioeconomic, racial/ethnic and gender inequalities in these contexts. Her recent book, Qualitative Literacy: A Guide to Evaluating Ethnographic and Interview Research (University of California, 2022), which she co-authored with sociologist Mario Luis Small, won the Outstanding Publication Award for the best book on methodology.

Participation

Participation in the course is free and open to all.

For organisational reasons, registration via the online registration form is welcome by 10 June 2024.

The course will be held in English.

Contact

The course is promoted by the Area of foreign and second languages teaching, multilingualism and interculturalism (ALPI).

For further information in relation to the course, please contact Professor Stefano Losa.