Qualitative studies in special education

An overview of the many types of studies that fall into the qualitative design genre is provided. Strategies that qualitative researchers use to establish the authors' studies as credible and trustworthy are listed and defined. So that readers will recognize the important contribution qualitative studies have made in the field of special education, a range of well-known and lesser known examples of qualitative research are reviewed. The quality indicators that are important in conducting and evaluating qualitative research are identified. Finally as an example of the evidence that can be produced using qualitative methods, the authors provide a summmary of how 3 studies have provided important information that can be used to inform polity and practice.