RSCH FPX 7868 Assessment 1 Developing a Research Topic for Qualitative Studies RSCH-FPX 7868 Qualitative Design and Analysis
Prof. Name:
Date
Employee Rights
Introduction
This assessment will examine the development of a qualitative research study focused on Employee Rights. Employee rights encompass a wide range of issues and opportunities, including workplace safety, health protection, working hours, wages, and various other entitlements. This assessment specifically targets the creation of a qualitative research study on equal pay for men and women performing similar roles in the workplace.
Background on Equitable Pay
Equitable Pay Rights
The Equal Pay Act of 1963 (2022) mandates equal wages for similar work, irrespective of the worker’s gender. The law stipulates that jobs do not need to be identical but must be substantially equal. Research conducted by Barroso and Brown (2021) indicates that women have made significant progress in securing higher-paying positions historically dominated by men in professional and managerial sectors. However, Barroso and Brown (2021) also highlight that despite this progress, pay disparities continue to persist.
Equitable Pay Rationale
Why is Pay Equity Important for Employers?
Equitable pay is essential for employers as it ensures fair and just treatment of employees regarding wages, regardless of gender. According to Nagele-Piazza (2020), providing equitable wages can enhance workers’ efficiency, quality, and productivity while decreasing turnover rates. When employers offer fair and transparent wages to all employees, the risk of legal action due to pay disparities diminishes. Hentze and Tyus (2021) found that many states have enacted laws specifically aimed at eliminating gender-based pay differences.
Research Questions
Qualitative research questions should consist of concise, single-sentence inquiries that clearly articulate the purpose of the research study.
Five Methodological Approaches
Ethnography Methodological Approach
Ethnographic research questions are descriptive and structured. An example of an ethnographic research question is: “This qualitative research study aims to explore the pay equity disparities women face in their positions compared to their male counterparts. Can you describe what a typical workday looks like for you?”
Case Study Methodological Approach
Crow et al. (2011) define a methodological case study as an approach used to gain an in-depth, multifaceted understanding of complex issues within a real-life context. An example of a case study methodological approach is: “This qualitative research study aims to explore the pay equity disparities women face in their positions compared to their male counterparts. Can you describe the gender-based pay disparity you have experienced?”
Grounded Theory Methodological Approach
Grounded theory research questions primarily focus on social processes or actions. An example of a grounded theory question for this qualitative research study is: “This qualitative research study aims to explore the pay equity disparities women face in their positions compared to their male counterparts. What occurs when the topic of gender pay disparity is discussed in your workplace?”
Phenomenology Methodological Approach
In qualitative research, phenomenology emphasizes an individual’s personal experiences. An example of a phenomenological question for this qualitative research study is: “This qualitative research study aims to explore the pay equity disparities women face in their positions compared to their male counterparts. How would you describe your personal experience with gender pay disparity?”
Generic Qualitative Inquiry Methodological Approach
Kahlke (2014) defines generic qualitative inquiry as research aimed at understanding how individuals assign meaning to a phenomenon or situation. An example of a generic qualitative inquiry question for this qualitative research study is: “This research study aims to explore the pay equity disparities women face in their positions compared to their male counterparts.”
Methodological Alignment Research Questions
Ethnography Methodological Alignment
“Can you describe what a typical workday looks like for you?” aligns with the ethnography methodology as it allows the researcher to gain insights into the daily experiences of both male and female participants.
Case Study Methodological Alignment
“Can you describe the gender-based pay di