The qualitative research audit trail: a complex collection of documentation

Area of Science:

• Qualitative Research Methodology
• Scientific Documentation

Background:

• Qualitative studies generate extensive researcher-generated data.
• This data is crucial for establishing study trustworthiness via an audit trail.
• Guidance on documenting this data is often lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss types of data contributing to credible qualitative investigations.
• To provide strategies for effective record-keeping in qualitative research.
• To offer practical examples from the authors' research.

Main Methods:

• The study is a qualitative investigation.
• It involves discussion of documentation types and strategies.
• Examples from the authors' own research are utilized.

Main Results:

• Identified key types of researcher-generated data in qualitative studies.
• Outlined strategies for maintaining comprehensive study records.
• Provided practical examples to illustrate effective documentation.

Conclusions:

• Effective documentation is essential for the credibility and trustworthiness of qualitative research.
• Researchers need practical guidance on generating and managing study records.
• The discussed strategies can enhance the rigor of qualitative investigations.