Reflections on a recently completed PhD

Abstract

This paper reflects upon the process of writing a thesis, from the initial choice of topic through the selection of case studies and organisation of interviews and supporting material, to the data analysis and writing up. It discusses some of the problems which were encountered at each of these stages, emphasising particularly the importance of being aware of the varying relationships between interviewer and subject, of the need to draw upon a range of methods, and of the iterative nature of the research process.

Keywords:

• Qualitative methodology
• case studies
• interviews
• homelessness