Which statement best describes qualitative research design?

• A. Descriptive data, explores experiences, opinions, themes
• B. Numeric data, measurable outcomes, statistical analysis
• C. Laboratory experiments
• D. Randomized trials

Answer: (A)

Qualitative research design centers on descriptive, non-numeric data gathered to understand people's experiences, beliefs, and the meanings they assign to them. It uses open-ended methods like interviews, focus groups, or naturalistic observation, and the goal is to identify themes, patterns, and contextual insights rather than measure quantities. This approach emphasizes depth, nuance, and interpretation in context.

The other descriptions align with quantitative or experimental approaches—numeric data and statistical analysis, laboratory experiments, and randomized trials—which focus on measuring outcomes, testing hypotheses, and determining effects with numerical data.