Introduction
Qualitative research is defined as any form of information gathering that is intended to describe but not predict, as in the case of quantitative research. Grounded theory is a type of qualitative research that suggests, based on the results of the analysis of phenomena, the phenomenon of its conceptualization at the level of a hypothesis or theory.
Discussion
According to Cardano (2020), this research strategy implies the need to structure and generalize the data obtained using the developed analysis scheme. For example, grounded theory helps understand the psychological experiences of patients with a particular disease. When primary and secondary data are collected, the researcher can infer various emotional experiences. As a result, a theory can be developed.
An ethnographic study takes place, completely immersing itself in the conditions of the real life of the subject, the way of life, behavior, attitudes, and traditions is examined. Henderson and Carter (2021) note that the primary goal of ethnography is to analyze and describe human behavior and activities in a cultural context, all of which involve the study of cultural traditions, rules and norms, and activities that characterize a particular group. The objects of ethnographic research are various ethnographic and religious groups and communities. An example is when an ethnographer studies an indigenous village on an island to observe their culture and customs outside of modern civilization.
The grounded theory differs from ethnographic research in that its purpose is not to provide a detailed description of a particular situation but, on the contrary, to discover a theory that can be transferred to other configurations. Merriam and Grenier (2019) affirm that in ethnography, the researcher focuses on a specific social group chosen based on cultural background, while in grounded theory, the cultural aspect is irrelevant. Moreover, the differences between these methodologies are related to the use of literature. In grounded theory, researchers do not use the literature before analyzing the data so that this does not affect the conclusions. On the contrary, in ethnography, researchers study literature before starting fieldwork.
Conclusion
In terms of similarities, in both methodologies, the researcher studies the phenomenon in its natural context. Also, both methodologies involve using multiple data collection approaches to provide multiple interpretations and ensure the accuracy and validity of the results.
References
Cardano, M. (2020). Defending qualitative research: Design, analysis, and textualization. Routledge.
Henderson, L. & Carter, S. (2021). Using qualitative research: A practical guide. SAGE Publications.
Merriam, S. B. & Grenier, R. S. (2019). Qualitative research in practice: Examples for discussion and analysis. John Wiley & Sons.