Determine if narrative research is appropriate. This type of inquiry is used for capturing detailed stories or the experiences of an individual or small group of people in a form similar to a diary.
Consider if phenomenological inquiry will work. Phenomenological study investigates the meaning of an experience, concept or phenomena through the eyes of several individuals. For example, a documentary may examine the experiences of cancer patients undergoing treatment.
Assess the discovery concepts of grounded theory. In this approach, researchers analyze groups of people who share common experiences such as world events, catastrophic situations, and political phenomena and develop theories about the occurrences.
Select ethnographic or cultural groups. This approach is used when you'd like to study the impressions, behavior, interaction and values of an entire ethnic group. For example, you could study the impact of technology in family life of Indian communities.
Utilize case study for large issues. Consider this approach for study bounded by size, or involving an individual, group of individuals, or entire programs or activity. For example, an event could be the Haiti catastrophe or the decision of an angel investor to rebuild a community in South Africa.