A qualitative research paper aims to investigate and understand human behavior and the reasons that govern it. Here is a sample 10 page qualitative research paper that focuses on understanding a problem or an issue through extensive data collection and analysis:
Introduction (1 page)
The introduction should identify the research problem and provide the context and background for the reader. It establishes why the research is important and outlines the key research objectives and questions. For example:
This research aims to explore reasons behind student absenteeism in a secondary school located in a suburban area. Student absenteeism has been rising over the past few years according to the school administration’s data. The objectives of this research are to understand reasons for absenteeism from the perspective of students, teachers and parents and identify possible solutions to address this issue. The research questions are: 1) What are the key reasons cited by students for missing school? 2) What challenges do teachers face in dealing with absenteeism in class? 3) What are the views of parents on student absenteeism and what steps can be taken by the school and parents to reduce it?
Literature Review (2 pages)
The literature review presents a synthesis of previous research studies, publications, reports and data related to the research topic to provide context and set the framework. It summarizes the key themes found in other scholars’ work and identifies the gap that the current research aims to address. For this paper, the literature review would cover:
Previous research that has examined reasons for student absenteeism such as family issues, bullying, lack of motivation etc.
Studies on effect of absenteeism on student performance and achievement levels
Strategies adopted by schools in the past to minimize absenteeism such as incentive programs, counseling, parental involvement etc.
Literature would help in framing the interview questions for primary data collection.
Research Methodology (1 page)
This section explains the overall approach and research design. As this is a qualitative study, it would utilize primarily interviews for data collection. The methodology section provides details on:
Research design – Qualitative, exploratory study
Sample selection – Purposive sampling of students (10), teachers (5) and parents (10)
Data collection methods – Semistructured interviews along with participant observation of classes
Data analysis – Thematic analysis of interview transcripts to identify major themes.
Data Analysis and Findings (4 pages)
This is the major section and forms the core part of the research paper. Here quantitative and qualitative data collected through primary research is analyzed and major findings are presented logically and clearly with illustrative examples and quotes from interviews.
Key themes would emerge from the consolidated data on the three stakeholder groups’ perspectives on the problem of rising absenteeism. Common reasons cited as well as differing views would be presented. Challenges faced by each group in dealing with this issue would provide insightful findings.
Conclusion (1 page)
This would summarize the major findings, draw conclusions and their implications. It would also highlight limitations of the study and scope for future research. Additionally, it would provide recommendations for the school and other stakeholders based on insights from the research for tackling the problem of rising absenteeism.
References (1 page)
The references section lists down all sources cited in the proper format (APA or MLA style). A minimum of 15 relevant sources should be included.
This sample 10 page qualitative research paper provides an outline of the important elements and sections. It is an exploratory study that utilizes primary data collection through interviews to gain an in-depth understanding of the problem from the perspectives of key stakeholders. Such a paper allows for an immersive exploration of issues through a qualitative lens.