Using Qualitative Methods to Evaluate and Make Change in the Work Environment

Abstract

The work environment is a particularly fertile field for the use of qualitative research methods such as in-depth interviews and open-ended surveys. These methods are well suited to the task of unearthing complex authentic perspectives that in the work environment context are so often influenced by social and political forces. The results of such methods can be especially powerful in enhancing our understanding of why change to better protect workers' health and safety does or does not happen and to persuade policy makers of the importance of positive change.