This computer-assisted-tutorial in qualitative research is intended to be a supplement, in several ways, to those studying or working with qualitative designs. It can be used as an adjunct to a formal qualitative research college/university course. The computer-lessons are intended to reinforce classroom lecture and dialogue; the work book provides additional practice and application with course content; the reference list guides the learner to other invaluable resources for more in-depth inquiry.

The computer-assisted-tutorial is a succinct review of qualitative research methods for those who have had a qualitative course in the past and who desire to bush up on their knowledge and skills. This review can assist in the selection of a research design for the profession in current practice or research settings; clarify current knowledge; give a historical perspective of current uses in the field; or give the professional sources for comparison of extant knowledge.

The computer-assisted tutorial can be used as an orientation for graduate students entering a formal program in research. Such a review may guide their research questions, illuminating a decision path to establish their level of focus, to either begin or continue a program of research.

The content of the computer-assisted tutorial compares and contrasts qualitative and quantitative research traditions in the human health sciences, supported by historical development of the science and art of qualitative methods. The content guides the learner in factual steps to either establish or critique the soundness of qualitative research findings; provides explicit information in the use of qualitative methods such as ethnography, ethnology, ethnoscience, ethnomethodology, grounded theory, phenomenology, historical research, interpretive and critical hermeneutics. Lastly, the computer-assisted-tutorial illuminates the aesthetics and ethical issues; and provides a guide for reading, critiquing, evaluating and using qualitative research.

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