There are qualitative studies posted using either a grounded theory method or ethnography method. Choose one grounded theory and one ethnography study for the assignment. Part I Read each study and address the following in one paragraph for each study: Cite the author(s) and year in the first sentence. Quote the purpose (Be sure to use quote marks and cite the page number). Describe the qualitative method used. Cite your book. For the grounded theory study, describe the stages or processes identified (be sure to look at the figure to understand the narrative). For the ethnography study, be sure to name the themes identified in the study results.  Describe if the study was easy or difficult to read and understand? Why?

Reflect on how you felt reading the experiences of the participants. Describe at least two similarities in the two studies chosen. Describe at least two differences between the two studies chosen.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12904-022-01055-7. (Grounded theory article)

https://doi.org/10.1177/1043659620912305.  (ethnography theory article)

ANSWER

In the grounded theory article by Lee and Park (2022), the purpose of the study is clearly stated: “to explore the experiences of terminally ill patients receiving palliative care.” The qualitative method employed in this study is grounded theory, as indicated by the article’s title. This method involves systematically gathering and analyzing data to develop a theory grounded in the participants’ experiences. The study follows the stages of grounded theory, including data collection, open coding, axial coding, and selective coding, as outlined in the textbook “Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods” by Patton (2015). The article presents a figure depicting the stages of data analysis, which aids in understanding the narrative. The study was relatively easy to read and understand, primarily due to its structured approach and clear presentation of findings. Reading the experiences of terminally ill patients evokes empathy and highlights the importance of providing compassionate palliative care.

In the ethnography article by Lacey (2020), the purpose is quoted as follows: “to explore the experiences of individuals living with a chronic illness.” Ethnography is the chosen qualitative method for this study. Ethnography involves immersing the researcher in the participants’ culture or context to gain an in-depth understanding of their experiences. While the book citation is not provided, the description aligns with the general principles of ethnography outlined in many qualitative research texts. The study identifies themes in the results section, including themes related to social support, coping mechanisms, and the impact of chronic illness on daily life. This study was also relatively easy to read and understand, as it offered rich descriptions of participants’ experiences. Reading about the challenges faced by individuals living with chronic illness fosters a sense of empathy and underscores the significance of holistic healthcare.

Similarities between the two studies include their focus on exploring the experiences of individuals facing health-related challenges. Both studies employ qualitative methods to gain a deep understanding of these experiences. Additionally, both studies emphasize the importance of providing compassionate and patient-centered care in the respective contexts of palliative care and chronic illness management.

Differences between the studies lie in their specific qualitative approaches. While both are qualitative, one uses grounded theory, which involves systematic coding and theory development, while the other uses ethnography, emphasizing immersion in the participants’ culture and context. Additionally, the populations studied differ, with one focusing on terminally ill patients and the other on individuals living with chronic illness. These differences highlight the diversity of qualitative research approaches and the unique insights they can provide.