Qualitative research characteristics – UGC NET Question

In this question statements A, B, D and F are correct descriptions of qualitative research, while C and E are wrong. Statement A is true because qualitative studies often rely on in-depth interviews and participant observation. Statement B correctly highlights the focus on meanings and perspectives, and statement D is right that qualitative data commonly appear as words or images. Statement F is also true since reflexivity is central, whereas C is false because qualitative research rarely uses large random samples with standardised tests and E is false because qualitative inquiry follows systematic, though flexible, procedures.

Option A:
Option A marks only C as wrong, ignoring E. While C is indeed incorrect in describing typical sampling and instruments, E is equally wrong in claiming the absence of systematic procedure. By missing one of the wrong statements, this option does not fully answer the question.

Option B:
Option B treats E alone as wrong and overlooks C. Although E is clearly false, C also misrepresents standard qualitative practice by importing quantitative assumptions. Therefore this option captures only part of the error set.

Option C:
Option C correctly identifies C and E as the two wrong statements while leaving A, B, D and F as unchallenged correct ones. It acknowledges that qualitative research need not use large random samples or standardised tests and that it does adopt systematic, though emergent, procedures. Hence this option is the correct answer.

Option D:
Option D adds D to the list of wrong statements along with C and E. However, D is a correct statement because qualitative data are indeed commonly captured in words, images and narratives. Misclassifying a true statement as wrong makes this combination invalid.