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Qualitative Data - GCSE Sociology Definition

Reviewed by: Raj Bonsor

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Qualitative data refers to information that describes qualities or characteristics that cannot be measured with numbers. It is often collected through methods like interviews, focus groups, or observations, where people share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in their own words. This type of data helps sociologists understand the deeper meanings and reasons behind people's behaviour and social phenomena. Unlike quantitative data, which deals with numbers and statistics, qualitative data provides rich, detailed insights that can help explain "why" and "how" things happen in society.

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Raj Bonsor

Reviewer: Raj Bonsor

Expertise: Psychology & Sociology Content Creator

Raj joined Save My Exams in 2024 as a Senior Content Creator for Psychology & Sociology. Prior to this, she spent fifteen years in the classroom, teaching hundreds of GCSE and A Level students. She has experience as Subject Leader for Psychology and Sociology, and her favourite topics to teach are research methods (especially inferential statistics!) and attachment. She has also successfully taught a number of Level 3 subjects, including criminology, health & social care, and citizenship.

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