Qualitative research: thoughts and reflections from an early career researcher

This chapter addresses the process of qualitative research from the perspective of an early career researcher. Drawing on a qualitative paper developed as part of the author's Master of Research, this chapter provides an overview of the project setup, research design, development of research questions, data management and analysis. As the global pandemic rendered face-to-face interviews impossible, the research relied on online interviews, which are emerging as a practical and cost-effective alternative. The use of technical tools such as NVivo improved the efficiency and quality of the interview and analysis processes. This chapter seeks to guide other early career researchers through the qualitative research process, exploring issues that arose, key lessons learned and what the author would do differently next time.