Qualitative research methodology: phenomenology

There are two qualitative and quantitative research paradigms in the methodological debates. Phenomenological approach is one of the most important methods in the qualitative researches. Depending on researcher’s view on study phenomenon, this approach is divided into two main methods of descriptive and interpretive. Despite the many similarities between the two methods, there are differences; that understanding them helps the researcher on proper choice of the two phenomenology methods for different areas. Therefore, this article tries while passing on the philosophical origins of phenomenology; clarifies applied features of both descriptive and interpretive approach.