Review the scenarios and related research questions below. Create some context for the identified scenario and research question. Then, select one qualitative research method that could address the research questions (one for each) based on the section topics and readings. For each method, discuss what the method is, how it would be designed to support the research question and the rationale for choosing the selected method.
Explain the following, and then justify your response:
Justify the use of the qualitative method you selected.
Identify the potential population and sample.
Explain the collection and analysis strategies you would use.
Examine the relationship of trustworthiness to your selected design.
Analyze any ethical issues, including the process of reflexivity and how you would account for it.
You must clearly describe the key points of each area, supporting each step with citations to your course text as well as peer-reviewed studies that directly align with the key areas discussed.
Scenario: Research has demonstrated that bank teller turnover continues to be high throughout the financial industry. In particular, studies reveal that if the turnover issue is not addressed, poor customer service and increase in training costs will continue to be a concern. After reviewing the literature, it is clear that a qualitative exploration may help reveal a meaningful understanding of the turnover issue and how it might be improved. The following research question was developed in support of this problem:
Research Question 1: How do bank managers perceive reducing high turnover in their banking institutions?
Full Answer Section
Justification for Choosing Semi-Structured Interviews
Semi-structured interviews provide flexibility in the interview process while maintaining a focus on key themes. This approach allows for tailored questions based on the manager's responses, while also ensuring that all participants are asked about the same essential topics.
Potential Population and Sample
The potential population for this study comprises bank managers at various levels of seniority and experience. A purposive sampling strategy will be employed to select a sample of managers from different banks and regions, ensuring diversity in perspectives.
Data Collection and Analysis Strategies
Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with the selected sample of bank managers. These interviews will be recorded and transcribed for analysis. Thematic analysis will be employed to identify recurring themes and patterns in the managers' responses, providing insights into their perceptions of teller turnover and potential reduction strategies.
Relationship of Trustworthiness to Design
Trustworthiness in qualitative research is crucial, and the chosen design elements contribute to this aspect. Semi-structured interviews allow for rapport building between the researcher and managers, fostering openness and trust. Additionally, the purposive sampling strategy ensures that the participants have relevant experiences and insights.
Ethical Considerations
Ethical considerations are paramount in qualitative research. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants, clearly explaining the purpose of the study and their rights. Confidentiality and anonymity will be maintained to protect the privacy of the managers. Reflexivity, the process of acknowledging and examining one's own biases and assumptions, will be practiced throughout the research process to minimize potential influences on data collection and analysis.
Conclusion
Semi-structured interviews offer a valuable qualitative research method for exploring bank managers' perceptions of teller turnover. This approach provides in-depth insights into their experiences and perspectives, aiding in the development of strategies to reduce turnover and improve employee retention in the banking industry.
Sample Answer
Context and Research Question
The scenario described highlights the persistent problem of high turnover among bank tellers. This issue has significant implications for the financial industry, leading to poor customer service and increased training costs. To address this challenge, the research question aims to explore the perceptions of bank managers regarding strategies for reducing teller turnover.
Qualitative Research Method
Given the focus on understanding the perceptions of bank managers, a qualitative research method, specifically semi-structured interviews, is deemed appropriate. This method allows for in-depth exploration of managers' experiences, perspectives, and opinions on teller turnover.