Researchers measure the effectiveness of new interventions using randomized controlled trials (RCTs). They are increasingly using qualitative research with these RCTs to explain the results of RCTs or facilitate the viability and efficiency of RCTs. A Practical Guide to Using Qualitative Research with Randomized Controlled Trials is a how-to book about the use of qualitative research with RCTs. Divided into three parts, this book covers the process of using qualitative research with RCTs from start to finish. Section one outlines overarching issues such as the many contributions qualitative research can make to generating evidence of effectiveness, section two provides practical guidance from writing a proposal through to publishing qualitative research undertaken with RCTs, and the final section guides the reader on how to engage with relevant stakeholders. Each chapter focuses on the key steps of undertaking qualitative research in RCTs, giving examples of how to write a proposal, select research questions, integrate qualitative and quantitative components, and much more. A Practical Guide to Using Qualitative Research with Randomized Controlled Trials is ideal for researchers who are leading, undertaking, or planning to use qualitative research with RCTs. With its detailed explanations and inspiring examples, this book is also useful for postgraduate students wishing to conduct qualitative research in the context of an RCT.
1: Introducing qualitative research with RCTs: overview of rationales, study designs and paradigms 1: Rationales for using qualitative research with randomised controlled trials 2: Frameworks, study designs and guidance 3: How qualitative research can contribute to generating evidence of effectiveness 4: Using qualitative research with different types of RCTs 5: Paradigms 6: Theories underpinning the intervention 2: Practical guidance for using qualitative research with RCTs 7: Writing a proposal 8: Selecting research questions 9: Collecting data 10: Analysing the qualitative data 11: Integrating qualitative and quantitative data and findings 12: Publishing journal articles 13: Assessing the quality of qualitative research undertaken with RCTs 3: Engaging relevant stakeholders 14: Team working 15: Engaging with key stakeholders 16: Having an impact on health, health care and health policy
Alicia O'Cathain (BSc, MSc, MA, PhD) is Professor of Health Services Research at the School of Health and Related Research at the University of Sheffield, UK. She has written extensively about mixed methods research in health and more recently on how to combine qualitative research with randomised controlled trials. She evaluates health services, particularly related to emergency and urgent care, and develops and evaluates interventions for chronic health problems.
Reviews for A Practical Guide to Using Qualitative Research with Randomized Controlled Trials
There have been numerous journal articles in recent years offering some guidance regarding conducting qualitative studies with trials but O'Cathain has synthesised previous research and further supplemented this guidance to produce this book. Covering theory and practice, it is a valuable tool, especially for any researcher or student embarking on designing or conducting a qualitative study with a trial. * Frances C. Sherratt, Qualitative Research *
