5th ISA Forum of Sociology (6-11 July 2025)

There is extensive literature on research methodology and methods, outlining the essence, the principles and procedures of social research. However, there is much less discussion about teaching research methods, particularly in the context of qualitative research. The nature of qualitative research manifests through flexibility and subjectivity; its process and procedures are less structured than in quantitative research, and a researcher plays a more active role in data collection, analysis and interpretation. The field work is prone to unexpected challenges which might be difficult to predict in the planning stage. The era of the Anthropocene also brings a different epistemological lens to how we generate knowledge calling for complexity, multiplicity, inclusiveness, flexibility and justice. Therefore, how do we ensure that these principles are served in the way that we construct knowledge through qualitative methods and how do we teach qualitative research that equips students to deal with the concerns of the Anthropocene?

The session invites academics and/or researchers who teach/and or train for qualitative research to share best practices of teaching, reflect upon the difficulties they or students (future researchers) encounter and discuss innovative solutions that could enhance teaching and learning for social justice.