Components of Qualitative Approach

Components of Qualitative Approach

Introduction

Different types of researches primarily utilized a quantitative approach in order to bring accurate and reliable findings. Quantitative approach is of great use for establishing foundation for research studies; however, it is also essential to expand the research base for including qualitative methods of investigation. Qualitative approach holds an immense significance for further enhancing the understanding of the given subject and in-depth analysis of its diverse aspects. The qualitative research approach includes various types of investigations that are aimed to understand and explain that phenomena of a given subject or study (Blank, 2009; Werthner). Thus, qualitative approach is significant for gaining better understanding of the study and expanding the research base. This paper focuses on the qualitative research on the topic “The Brave New World of High Stakes Testing”, while analyzing the components of qualitative approach, such as approach and validity of qualitative research studies, qualitative interviews, ethical issues, and others.

Analysis of Qualitative Research Studies Relevant to the Topic

A number of studies can be found on the topic under consideration i.e. The Brave New World of High Stakes Testing. Three peer review scholarly studies are selected that are highly relevant to the topic and provides significant information on today's educational environment of High Stake Testing. One of the research studies examined a position statement of the Internal Reading Association on High stakes assessments in reading. This study indicates that the International Reading Association's Board of Directors is opposed to High stakes tests because they consider it inappropriate to evaluate students based on just 'one' test. According to the study, educators view assessment as a tool to help students by offering information regarding instructions improvement. Furthermore, it also illustrates that a broad range of students' need must be addressed by schools rather than a particular subject or part of subject areas covered on specific test (Blackwel, 1999). Thus, this study provides some significant bases that are opposed to a large scale, high stakes tests; however, it is not opposed to assessment and accountability.

Other two studies are also analyzed in this regards. The study conducted by Kay Brimijoin (2005), who analyzed the compatibility of meeting diverse learning needs through differentiation with the high-stakes testing that has become the way of life in today's educational environment. This article indicates the conflicts that occur when attention to learners' requirements collides with attention to high stake testing. Thus, this study reveals that increasing focus on high stake testing often arise the conflict with respect to students' individual learning needs. So, this article provides a recommendation that teachers may take suggested actions that can facilitate differentiation when accountability mandates threaten to undermine the education's personal nature.

A third study is analyzed that revealed a correlation between high stake testing and increasing rate of school drop outs. According to authors, a likely relation between high stake testing and drop outs is analyzed, as students, particularly from lower socio-economic backgrounds, observed to dropped out of schools earlier than previously believed mainly ...