2014 ASHS Annual Conference

Objective(s):
To discuss how qualitative research has been used in horticulture thus far. To present basic techniques of qualitative research and how it differs from other types of research. To give participants the chance to discuss qualitative methods and learn how to incorporate them into their research practices.

Quantitative research is the norm in horticultural peer-reviewed literature; however, there is still a need for qualitative research.  Qualitative research is highly accepted in education and other fields of the sciences, but its use in horticulture has been very limited. There are some significant uses for qualitative research in horticulture, and some questions that can only be answered by talking to people, observing people, and collecting detailed, non-measurable data about their experience. This session will provide a platform for scientists, policy makers, and scholars to learn about the challenges and opportunities of qualitative research and help give them the impetus to incorporate qualitative methods into their own programs.