Using grounded theory to research parent participation

Abstract

There are many interpretations and applications of the grounded theory method which have contributed to different understandings of grounded theory and different versions of how the key components (theoretical sampling, constant comparative analysis and theoretical saturation) should be implemented. The esoteric terminology coupled with the matrix style of the analysis process can be challenging for new researchers. This paper uses data from a study on parent participation to illustrate the application of the key components of grounded theory. Grounded theory provides clear guidelines on how to analyse qualitative data and so is a rigorous method that provides structure and direction to the researcher. However, theoretical sampling with vulnerable groups can be problematic and requires further discussion and debate from other users of grounded theory.