August 1

Do terms like inductive, deductive, and abductive reasoning and their use in qualitative research confuse you? Part of the challenge of understanding these terms and integrating these concepts into action is that they are frequently presented as options/thoughts/exercises to be used separately rather than in a combination. This course examines the productive tensions between and among the three, and possibilities for empowering your research design, data collection, and data analysis by using them in concert.

This one-day course will include concrete presentation and discussion of foundational concepts and practical applications as well as in-class exercises. Content and practice will include exploring the productive tension(s) and possibilities among inductive, deductive, and abductive reasoning; “working the triangle” among inductive/deductive/abductive; feeling the texture and precision in your qualitative inquiry; and seeking quality in qualitative inquiry.

Participants are asked to bring research design drafts, data collection plans, and/or data to analyze and interpret as time allows.