Qualitative Research is often defined, as opposed to quantitative, as a type of research whose results do not come from quantitative instruments or are analyzed by statistical treatment. This is partially true. Qualitative research is a way of conceiving reality, some methods to approach its study, as well as techniques and instruments according to these methods and procedures of analysis and validation consistent with the theoretical foundations that support it. In the Social Sciences, Qualitative Research has a long history and becomes increasingly relevant when the purpose of the study is to understand in depth individual and collective actions, organizational functioning, social movements or interactive relationships. From this perspective, this book obeys the purpose of offering new researchers, teachers and students of social disciplines, basic, theoretical and practical guidelines, to perform qualitative studies in their areas of specific interest.

The application begins with a brief introduction to the paradigms of Positivist, Phenomenological and Critical research, with the purpose of locating the reader in the ontological, epistemological and methodological foundations that guide the investigative praxis in each one of them.

The central idea is to highlight the differences between these paradigms so that the reader assumes the application of the techniques and procedures of each one of these conceptions from a reflective and not simply mechanical knowledge.

In chapter II the reader is introduced to the problem, the objectives and, in general, the design of Qualitative Research.

Chapter III includes some techniques for gathering information in Qualitative Research: observation, interview, metaphors, critical events, role play, projective methods, life histories, technological records, content analysis.

Chapter IV presents some qualitative analysis procedures, as well as strategies to ensure the validity of the information collected. They also offer guidelines for the completion of the Final Report of the investigation.