Qualitative research usually involves conducting a case study on a small group of
people for some length of time. Qualitative research begins with a loosely
formulated idea or topic. Next she selects a social group or site for study. Once she
gains access to the group or site, she adopts a social role in the setting and begins
observing. The researcher observes and interacts with people in the field setting for a period ranging from a few months to several years, gets to know personally the
people being studied, and takes very detailed notes on daily basis. During the
months of observation, she carefully considers what is observed and refines or
focuses ideas. Finally, she leaves the field site and reread her notes in order to
prepare a written report.