This chapter gives an overview of the various data collection methods in qualitative research. Then the authors concentrate on the communication accommodation theory (CAT) and its strategies. Additionally, they explore how utilizing CAT can enhance the quality and depth of information gathered through focus groups and interviews. According to this chapter, in order to build relationships, researchers need to modify their communication styles according to factors like the age, gender, or social status of interviewees, as this encourages informants to share more information and reduces the likelihood of concealing secrets. This approach, when conversing in native or foreign languages, helps researchers maintain a better understanding of participants’ perspectives and insights. Furthermore, adapting communication styles can also help researchers navigate cultural nuances and sensitivities, leading to more meaningful and accurate data collection and uncovering deeper insights and perspectives that may have otherwise been overlooked.
Elhami, A., Roshan, A., & Giles, H. (2024). Looking at qualitative research data collection methods and the significance of CAT in cross-cultural interviewing. In A. Elhami, A. Roshan, & H. Chandan (Eds.), Principles of conducting qualitative research in multicultural settings (p. 21). IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-3306-8.ch004