Data Collection
Qualitative data consists of detailed descriptions of situations, events, people,
interactions and observed behaviors. It revolves around people’s interpretations,
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experiences, beliefs and thoughts. In qualitative research, the researcher becomes the
primary instrument for data collection. Qualitative case studies rely heavily upon data
obtained from interviews, observation and documents. Therefore, it is imperative to
consider, the researcher’s background and what values, assumptions, beliefs or biases she
brings to the study. In this case, the researcher is a former secondary social studies
teacher and a current administrator in a public school setting with a strong background in
instructional practices. As an administrator, the researcher evaluates and supervises
teaching performance regularly. As an administrator, the teacher evaluation and
supervision practice involves providing feedback, suggestions or developing action plans
to improve teaching.