Qualitative Research Plan

Qualitative Research Plan

Consider a research problem and conceptualize a qualitative study you want to conduct to address the problem., Write a plan for the procedures to be used in your qualitative study. ,Include your role and reflexivity data collection procedures data recording procedures data analysis procedures interpretation and validity and reliability., Use the guidelines provided in Creswell & Creswell for the elements to include in your qualitative study., Please also review Chapter 3 of the Publication manual of the American Psychological Association.

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Qualitative Research Plan

Title:

Understanding the Experiences of First-Generation College Students Navigating Academic and Social Challenges at a Predominantly White Institution

Research Problem

First-generation college students (FGCS) face unique barriers in higher education, including cultural dissonance, lack of academic preparedness, and social alienation. These challenges are often intensified at predominantly White institutions (PWIs), where cultural representation and support structures may be lacking. Despite quantitative research identifying these disparities, there is limited qualitative insight into how FGCS interpret, navigate, and respond to these challenges in their own words.

Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study is to explore the lived experiences of FGCS at a PWI to understand how they make sense of academic, social, and cultural challenges and the support systems they find most valuable.

Role of the Researcher and Reflexivity

As a researcher who is not a first-generation college student but has worked in student support services, I bring a mix of outsider and insider perspectives. My background may influence the way I interpret participants’ responses. To address this, I will:

• Maintain a reflexive journal to document personal reactions and biases.

• Use member checking to validate interpretations with participants.

• Engage in peer debriefing with colleagues to ensure balanced analysis.

Research Questions

1. What are the lived experiences of first-generation college students at a PWI?

2. How do these students interpret and navigate academic and social challenges?

3. What institutional or informal support systems do they find helpful or lacking?

Data Collection Procedures

• Participants: 10–12 FGCS currently enrolled at a large Midwestern PWI, recruited through the university’s first-generation support office and student organizations.

• Sampling Strategy: Purposeful sampling, ensuring diversity in gender, major, and year of study.