Rethinking qualitative inquiry in implementation science: clarifying purpose, design, and rigor

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Qualitative methods are integral to implementation science but often used for varied purposes without clear distinctions.
• Implicit differences in study goals can lead to mismatched expectations regarding theory, findings, and rigor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for a more explicit approach to understanding qualitative inquiry in implementation science.
• To propose a positioning framework to differentiate qualitative study orientations based on purpose.

Main Methods:

• Development of a positioning framework for qualitative inquiry in implementation science.
• Categorization of qualitative orientations into Generative, Pragmatic, and Action-oriented.
• Creation of a positioning guide and table detailing design implications.

Main Results:

• Qualitative inquiry can be oriented along a continuum: Generative (conceptual depth), Pragmatic (intermediate), and Action-oriented (decision-relevant).
• The proposed framework illustrates how study purpose influences key design elements like theory use, sampling, and analysis.
• Explicit methodological positioning clarifies study goals and assessment criteria.

Conclusions:

• A standardized approach to qualitative rigor is insufficient given the diverse aims of qualitative studies in implementation science.
• Making the methodological positioning of qualitative inquiry explicit can improve study design, peer review, and evaluation.
• This framework enhances clarity on the intended contributions and assessment of qualitative work in implementation science.