What does the concept of "transferability" refer to in qualitative research?

What does the concept of "transferability" refer to in qualitative research?

• A. The reliability of study findings
• B. The applicability of study findings to other contexts or settings
• C. The statistical significance of research results
• D. The methodology used to collect data

Answer: (B)

Transferability in qualitative research pertains to the applicability of study findings to other contexts or settings. This concept emphasizes that while qualitative research results are context-specific, they can provide insights that may be relevant or transferable to similar contexts, populations, or situations. Researchers focus on rich, detailed descriptions of the research setting and participants to enable others to determine how the findings might apply to their own contexts. This understanding of transferability is crucial because, unlike quantitative research, where generalizability is often sought through large sample sizes and statistical tests, qualitative research does not aim to produce findings that can be applied universally. Instead, it seeks depth and understanding, allowing others to draw parallels if the context or characteristics are similar. Therefore, a study that is rich in detail facilitates readers in making connections to their own environments, effectively considering the relevance of the findings beyond the original study.

Transferability in qualitative research pertains to the applicability of study findings to other contexts or settings. This concept emphasizes that while qualitative research results are context-specific, they can provide insights that may be relevant or transferable to similar contexts, populations, or situations. Researchers focus on rich, detailed descriptions of the research setting and participants to enable others to determine how the findings might apply to their own contexts.

This understanding of transferability is crucial because, unlike quantitative research, where generalizability is often sought through large sample sizes and statistical tests, qualitative research does not aim to produce findings that can be applied universally. Instead, it seeks depth and understanding, allowing others to draw parallels if the context or characteristics are similar. Therefore, a study that is rich in detail facilitates readers in making connections to their own environments, effectively considering the relevance of the findings beyond the original study.