An argument for the increased use of qualitative research in LIS

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to provide insight about the use of qualitative research in library and information science (LIS) literature. This paper also provides an account of the extent to which different qualitative methods have been used or are in use within LIS research. The analysis has led to the conclusion that there is a greater inclination towards some qualitative methods than others. In addition it seems that a majority of the research regardless of method looks at the same research problem repetitively. While more emphasis is currently being given to user studies and informationseeking behavior, the results seem to highlight similar qualitative research methods being used repetitively, but without a useful move toward consistent theory building. It is suggested therefore, that research problems should be redesigned and explored from different perspectives so that new paradigmatic questions can be raised.