Sensitivities and Ethics in Qualitative Research

Abstract

This is a qualitative research approach project of the author’s dissertation as part of completing doctoral qualification. The project undertakes a multiple case study of several higher learning institutions. Mainly, the project centres around operationalising on the leadership practices in educational institutions in Malaysia. This research project aims to establish the practices of the leaders in the management process and to add to empirical understanding of the way leadership practices affect followership. A better understanding of this phenomena serves valuable insight, which evaluates both the process and the outcome of the leadership practices on followers’ commitment. During the research, it was discovered that qualitative methodology does present quite a few challenges generally in regards to collecting data and analysing data concurrently. This is especially true during ethical considerations and prevention of biasness throughout the research progress in general. The article presents valuable insights on underlying fundamental issues on qualitative research. It is hoped to provide a basic understanding and may serve as guidance for novice researchers and students alike on qualitative research approach