Internet Communication and Qualitative Research

methods of conducting online focus groups and interviews, in particular, are detailed. The tone is both analytical and practical with a host of techniques suggested. I recommend this accessible text for all qualitative researchers, both academic and practitioner' - Rehan Ul-Haq, University of Birmingham Business School



`Here is the clear, useful guide to the Internet research needed by all of us interested in on-line relationships and research. The authors address such issues as ethics, confidentiality, the theory and practice of on-line research, and on-line power relationships (which will be of concern in distance learning plans and programs). A very valuable book.' - Cheris Kramarae, Center for the Study of Women in Society, University of Oregon



`Wonderful - "beyond the software" and into on-line interaction to aid and abet our qualitative research. This book shines the light. Mann and Stewart are to be congratulated in offering qualitative researchers effective and authentic ways forward through electronic communication. I'll use and recommend it!' - Gilly Salmon, Centre for Information and Innovation, Open University Business School



`Opens to view a whole new avenue for social research. Internet communication is the wave of the future. Mann and Stewart capture its potential with insight, caution, and consummate procedural skill. Pathbreaking in its area of research methodology! Students and researchers will be very pleased with its clarity and usefulness' - Jaber F Gubrium, Department of Sociology, University of Florida



`The authors have produced a timely and stimulating publication with handy explanations of Internet terms and qualitative research applications. This work should be made readily available not only for reference to academics and practitioners of marketing, but also to those with a lay interest in it' - Professor Len Tiu Wright, De Montfort University





Internet Communication and Qualitative Research is the first textbook to examine the impact of Internet technology on qualitative research methods.



Drawing on many pioneering studies using computer-mediated communication (CMC), the authors show how online researchers can employ Internet-based qualitative methods to collect rich, descriptive, contextually-situated data. They discuss the methodological, practical and theoretical considerations associated with such methods as: in-depth online interviewing, virtual focus groups, participant observation in virtual communities.



This is a comprehensive and practical guide that:

- reviews online research practice and basic Internet technology

- looks in detail at the skills required by the online researcher

- examines the ethical, confidentiality, security and legal issues involved in online research

- considers the theoretical challenges surrounding data collected in a 'virtual venue'

- addresses the social and cultural impact of researching online through a discussion of power, gender and identity issues in the virtual world.



Internet Communication and Qualitative Research will be an indispensable guide for all students and researchers working in the digital age.