Research Title:

EXPLORING THE LIVE EXPERIENCES OF STUDENTS RAISED BY

GRANDPARENTS

CHAPTER 2

METHOD

This study employs a phenomenological qualitative research approach. It aims to

explore the lived experiences of students who have been raised by their grandparents.

Within this chapter, details are provided regarding the research design, criteria for

selecting respondents, methodologies for data collection, the roles undertaken by the

researchers, strategies for data analysis and interpretation, trustworthiness of the study,

and the ethical considerations essential for maintaining credibility.

Research Design

This study is phenomenological qualitative in design for it documented the

students’ academic struggles, support systems, and coping mechanisms while living

with their grandparents. What contributed to the deeper understanding of the lived

experience is the findings of the phenomenological research, which described the

structure of the experience in a comprehensive perspective. This methodology

described the relationship between a person and their surroundings as well as the
interconnectedness of the lived experiences, which is most suitable for the exploratory

study on the experiences of the students living with their grandparents.

The purpose of this phenomenological approach is to dig into the perception of

the students about how they see and react to phenomena they experienced. So that, it

agrees to the idea of Valde-Mamales, G.L.C., Daclan, G.S.T., & Gempes, G.P. (2016)

that this approach is highly relevant to understanding the struggles and success of

students from fosters homes, particularly those from grandparents. In layman’s term,

this approach documents in depth information and perceptions thru qualitative methods

like focused discussion, participative observation, and interviews and representing it

from the point of view of the respondents.

Phenomenology can be understood on how a certain event or experience is

perceived by consciousness and emotion leading to reactions, idea, understanding, and

concepting judgment. The participants in the study will be asked open-ended interview

questions, such that their specific experiences can be identified (Creswell, 2013; Adams

et al., 2007; Hancock, Ockleford & Windridge, 2007; Creswell, Plano & Vicki, 2002).

In phenomenological study, the purpose of interviews is to make access to

participant life experience. In conducting interview, the researcher will listen to learn

from the participant who has the expertise of his own experience. In this view point,

there is an interesting conversation between the participants and the interviewer leading

in the discussion of a particular experience the participants willing to share (Adams et

al, 2007; Neuman, 2006; DeMarrais & Lapan, 2004).

 Data Collection

The employment of Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and In-depth Interviews

(IDI) as the primary data collection methods for this study has helped to do the

documentation properly, avoiding interpretation and analysis barriers.

Prior to data collection, permissions were obtained from both school authorities

and student respondents. Ethical validation of interview questions was conducted by

the office of the Principal and the subject teacher to ensure appropriateness and

comprehensibility. Participants were selected based on specific criteria, and informed

consent was secured before data collection. FGDs facilitated group interactions to

explore shared experiences, while in-depth interviews provided a platform for individual

narratives. Creswell (2008) emphasized that phenomenological study involves the

widest array of data collection as the researcher attempts to build an in-depth picture of

the case. Data collection procedures prioritized confidentiality and participant comfort,

with audio recordings and detailed notes taken during sessions. Thematic analysis was

employed to identify recurring themes and patterns, while ethical considerations were

paramount throughout the study, including respect for participant autonomy and

confidentiality.

The study acknowledges potential limitations such as social desirability bias and

sample representativeness and aims to address them through rigorous data collection

and analysis procedures.

 Data Analysis

Thorne (2000) mentioned that data analysis, often deemed the most complex

and mysterious phase of a qualitative project, involves several key steps. Researchers

begin by transcribing audio recordings or written notes from focus group discussions

(FGDs) and in-depth interviews (IDIs) into text format.

Many researchers use thematic analysis as a way of getting close to their data

and developing a deeper appreciation of the content (Silverman, 2005; Streubert, 2000;

Boyatzis, 1998). After transcription, researchers familiarize themselves with the data by

reading through the transcripts multiple times to gain insight into the content.

As researchers delve into the transcripts, they systematically categorize

segments of text based on their content or meaning, a process known as coding. These

codes serve as labels or categories that help organize and analyze the data, forming

the foundation for subsequent analysis.

Following coding (categorization), researchers identify and develop overarching

themes or patterns within the data. Themes represent broader concepts or ideas that

emerge from the coded data, providing insight into participants' perspectives and

experiences.

Researchers analyze the data within each theme to explore relationships

between different concepts, identify variations across participants, and draw

interpretations or conclusions. This involves comparing responses from different focus

groups or interviews, examining the frequency or intensity of themes, and looking for

explanations for observed patterns.

 To ensure the validity and reliability of the findings, researchers may triangulate

the results by cross-checking findings from different data sources or methods.

Triangulation helps to corroborate the findings and enhance the credibility of the

analysis.

Finally, researchers interpret the findings in the context of existing literature,

theories, or frameworks, and report their results in a research report or manuscript. This

involves synthesizing the key findings, discussing their implications, and making

recommendations for future research or practice.

Each sentence integrates a step of the data analysis process within the broader

context provided.

Role of the Researchers

According to positivistic paradigm, social reality is to be understood as an

objective entity, and it is the job of the scientist to uncover this entity bit by bit—to go out

and find the truthc (A.S. Fink, 2000). The role of the researchers in this study was

pivotal in ensuring the successful implementation of the research process and the

attainment of its objectives. As qualitative researchers, the team adopted various roles

and responsibilities throughout the study, which encompassed both practical and ethical

considerations.

First and foremost, the researchers served as facilitators of the research process,

guiding the study from its conceptualization to its conclusion. This involved designing

the research methodology, selecting appropriate data collection methods, and

overseeing the execution of the study in accordance with ethical guidelines and best

practices.

Additionally, the researchers acted as liaisons between the participants and the

research objectives, fostering trust and rapport with the participants to facilitate open

and honest communication. Building meaningful relationships with the participants was

essential for ensuring the quality and depth of the data collected.

Moreover, the researchers played a crucial role in data collection, employing a

combination of focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews (IDIs) to gather

rich and diverse perspectives on the lived experiences of students raised by

grandparents. The researchers conducted the interviews and facilitated the FGDs,

ensuring that all participants had the opportunity to share their experiences and insights.

Throughout the data collection process, the researchers remained mindful of

ethical considerations, including informed consent, confidentiality, and participant well-

being. Ethical validation of interview questions was conducted to ensure that the

research was conducted in an ethically sound manner and adhered to ethical guidelines

and standards.

In addition to their roles in data collection, the researchers were actively involved

in data analysis and interpretation. This involved transcribing and coding the data,

identifying themes and patterns, and drawing interpretations based on the findings. The

researchers engaged in reflexivity, critically reflecting on their own biases and

assumptions to ensure the credibility and validity of the analysis.

 Overall, the role of the researchers was multifaceted and dynamic, requiring a

combination of technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and ethical integrity. By fulfilling

their roles diligently and conscientiously, the researchers were able to conduct a

rigorous and insightful study that shed light on the lived experiences of students raised

by grandparents.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are paramount in conducting research, especially when

exploring sensitive topics such as the lived experiences of vulnerable populations like

students raised by grandparents. As stressed by Neuman (2006) in writing a research,

the researcher must take into account the various ethical issues, concerns, dilemmas

and conflicts that arise during the process. Ethics defines what is or are not legitimate to

do or what moral research procedure involves. It is often a balance between two values;

the pursuit of scientific knowledge and the rights of those being studied (Boydell, 2007;

Shenton, 2004; Richards, & Schwartz, 2002). Throughout the research process, the

ethical principles of respect, beneficence, justice, and integrity were carefully upheld to

ensure the well-being and rights of all participants involved.

First, informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to their

involvement in the study. This process involved providing detailed information about the

purpose of the study, the procedures involved, potential risks and benefits, and the

voluntary nature of participation. Participants were assured of their right to withdraw

from the study at any time without consequence.

 Additionally, confidentiality and privacy were rigorously maintained to protect the

anonymity of the participants and the confidentiality of their responses. Participants'

identities were anonymized in all research materials, and strict measures were taken to

safeguard the confidentiality of any personal or sensitive information shared during data

collection and analysis.

Furthermore, the researchers ensured that the study was conducted in a manner

that respected the cultural and social contexts of the participants. This involved being

sensitive to cultural norms and practices, avoiding any actions or behaviors that could

be perceived as disrespectful or insensitive, and seeking to foster a safe and inclusive

research environment.

Moreover, the researchers were mindful of the power dynamics inherent in the

researcher-participant relationship and took steps to mitigate any potential imbalances

of power or coercion. This included maintaining transparency about the research

process, empowering participants to make informed decisions about their participation,

and acknowledging and addressing any conflicts of interest that may arise.

Throughout the research process, ethical validation of the study protocol and

data collection instruments was sought from relevant institutional review boards or

ethics committees. This ensured that the research was conducted in accordance with

established ethical guidelines and standards and that the rights and welfare of the

participants were upheld.

In summary, ethical considerations were central to every aspect of the research

process, from the design and implementation of the study to the analysis and
dissemination of the findings. By upholding ethical principles and values, the

researchers demonstrated their commitment to conducting research that is respectful,

responsible, and socially responsible.

Trustworthiness

Ensuring trustworthiness of a qualitative study can be increased and essential to

maintaining high credibility and objectivity (Suter, 2006; Gay & Airasians, 2003;

Richards & Schwartz, 2002), it is the quality achieved in the study if the data collected is

applicable and consistent. In qualitative research, trustworthiness is established through

several strategies to enhance credibility, dependability, confirmability, and

transferability.

I. Credibility

Credibility. To establish credibility, rigorous methods were employed throughout

the research process. This included maintaining transparency about the research

procedures, data collection, and analysis techniques. Additionally, member checking

was conducted, allowing participants to review and validate the interpretations of their

experiences. By engaging in reflexivity, the researchers acknowledged and addressed

potential biases, further strengthening the credibility of the findings.

II. Dependability

The dependability of the research findings was ensured through systematic

documentation of research procedures and decisions. Detailed records were maintained

to provide transparency and facilitate the replication of the study by other researchers. A

history of data collection and analysis processes was also kept, allowing for the

assessment of dependability by external reviewers.

III. Confirmability

Confirmability was maintained through an objective and transparent approach to

data analysis. The researchers strived to maintain neutrality and objectivity throughout

the research process, minimizing the influence of personal biases on the interpretation

of the data. Peer debriefing sessions were conducted to validate interpretations and

ensure that conclusions were grounded in the data rather than personal perspectives.

IV. Transferability

To enhance the transferability of the findings, rich and detailed descriptions of the

research context, participants, and data collection procedures were provided. This

allowed readers to evaluate the relevance and applicability of the findings to their own

contexts or populations. Moreover, thick descriptions of participant experiences and

verbatim quotes were included in the research report to provide readers with a deeper

understanding of the phenomenon under study.

By addressing these dimensions of trustworthiness, the researchers bolstered

the credibility and relevance of their findings, instilling confidence in the validity and

utility of the research outcomes.