Skip to main content
SLU publication database (SLUpub)

Research article2017Peer reviewedOpen access

Quantity Does Not Always Mean Quality: The Importance of Qualitative Social Science in Conservation Research

Rust, Niki A.; Abrams, Amber; Challender, Daniel W. S.; Chapron, Guillaume; Ghoddousi, Arash; Glikman, Jenny A.; Gowan, Catherine H.; Hughes, Courtney; Rastogi, Archi; Said, Alicia; Sutton, Alexandra; Taylor, Nik; Thomas, Sarah; Unnikrishnan, Hita; Webber, Amanda D.; Wordingham, Gwen; Hill, Catherine M.

Abstract

Qualitative methods are important to gain a deep understanding of complex problems and poorly researched areas. They can be particularly useful to help explain underlying conservation problems. However, the significance in choosing and justifying appropriate methodological frameworks in conservation studies should be given more attention to ensure data are collected and analysed appropriately. We explain when, why, and how qualitative methods should be used and explain sampling strategies in qualitative studies. To improve familiarity with qualitative methods among natural scientists, we recommend expanding training in social sciences and increasing collaboration with social scientists. Given the scale of human impacts on the environment, this type of nuanced analytical skill is critical for progressing biodiversity conservation efforts.

Keywords

Human-wildlife conflict; qualitative methods; quantitative methods; social sciences; study design

Published in

Society and Natural Resources
2017, Volume: 30, number: 10, pages: 1304-1310 Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS INC

    Sustainable Development Goals

    SDG15 Life on land

    UKÄ Subject classification

    Environmental Management
    Social Sciences Interdisciplinary

    Publication identifier

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/08941920.2017.1333661

    Permanent link to this page (URI)

    https://res.slu.se/id/publ/93078