Building Qualitative Research Capacity in Implementation Laboratories: Outcomes of a Structured Training Program in...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Health Systems Strengthening

Background:

• Qualitative methods are crucial for capturing lived experiences and contextual details in research.
• Frontline data collectors in Nigeria often lack systematic training in these essential qualitative methods.
• This study addresses the need for improved qualitative research capacity among Site Research Coordinators (SRCs) in Nigeria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a structured, practice-oriented training program for SRCs in Nigeria.
• To assess improvements in core conceptual knowledge, informed-consent practices, and interview skills.
• To measure changes in SRCs' self-reported confidence and application of qualitative research practices.

Main Methods:

• A pre-post evaluation design was employed with twelve SRCs.
• Training focused on core qualitative research concepts, ethical consent, interview preparation, and conduct.
• Data were analyzed using exact McNemar tests and percentage-point change with 95% confidence intervals.

Main Results:

• The training significantly improved understanding of interview guide purpose (8.3% to 91.7%, p = .002).
• Substantial gains were observed in preparing open-ended questions and probing techniques, though not statistically significant (p = .06) due to small sample size.
• High baseline performance on ethical consent limited measurable change; observed improvements consistently reflected correct responses.

Conclusions:

• Short, practice-oriented training can yield significant improvements in specific qualitative research competencies.
• Sustained field practice requires integrating training with supervised fieldwork, mentorship, and institutional support.
• A practical training guide was developed to facilitate broader implementation and future evaluations.