This thoroughly revised and updated classic once again presents a guide to understanding, designing and conducting a qualitative research (QR) study. The third edition retains the reader-friendly, jargon-free style, making the book accessible to both novice and experienced researchers. While the book is practical guide to design and implementation of a QR study, it also helps readers understand the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of this research paradigm. Drawing on the latest literature as well as the author's own experience with conducting and teaching QR, the third edition includes new material on types of qualitative research; on the role of a theoretical framework in designing a study; on validity and reliability; and also includes an addendum for graduate students which provides a template for the methods chapter of a thesis, dissertation, or grant application.