Qualitative research is a research type that involves collecting and processing non-numerical data to find out individual’s social reality, including the understanding of their attitudes, concepts, beliefs, and motivation.

This type of research is typically incorporates in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, or observations.  

According to John W. Creswell (2012), qualitative research is a means for exploring and understanding the meaning individuals or groups ascribe to a social human problem.

Examples of such research:

•    How is anxiety experienced around the world?
•    How can teachers integrate social issues into science curriculum?

*Amreta Biswas: Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Business Administration, Central Women's University.