Navigating the Qualitative Research Landscape: Methodological Insights from a Study on Gentrification in Johannesburg

Letlape, Bonolo Helen and Gumbo, Trynos and Mndzebele, Mhlalisi Gavu and Naidoo, Kammila (2025) Navigating the Qualitative Research Landscape: Methodological Insights from a Study on Gentrification in Johannesburg. URBAN INNOVATION: TO BOLDLY GO WHERE NO CITIES HAVE GONE BEFORE. Medium sized cities and towns as a major arena of global urbanisation. Proceedings of REAL CORP 2025, 30th Intl. Conference on Urban Development, Regional Planning and Information Society. pp. 731-739. ISSN 2521-3938

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Abstract

Any academic inquiry involves the application of appropriate investigative methodologies. Research methodology serves as a vital tool in understanding and addressing research problems. It is the art of exploring, explaining, and envisioning phenomena by connecting ideas, uncovering meaning and making sense of complex realities. Whilst there are several research methodological approaches , this paper explores the applicability of qualitative methodology employed in a study examining gentrification and urban sustainability in Johannesburg’s Braamfontein area. Grounded in an interpretive research paradigm, the study adopted a case study research design and used applied purposive and snowball sampling to gather diverse perspectives from participants. Data collection methods included in-depth interviews, field observations, aerial photographs analysis, photographic surveys and spatial analysis, with analysis conducted through Nvivo qualitative data analysis software. The paper discusses the rationale behind methodological choices, the challenges encountered during data collection, and the strategies employed to ensure trustworthiness, including credibility, dependability, and confirmability. By examining the methodological processes used in this study, this paper aims to contribute to the broader discourse on qualitative research, offering practical insights for researchers navigating complex urban studies.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Gentrification, qualitative research methodology, case study design, interpretive research paradigm, data collection methods
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor H Social Sciences > HM Sociology H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races
Depositing User:	REAL CORP Administrator
Date Deposited:	23 May 2025 09:39
Last Modified:	07 Jul 2025 10:09
URI:	http://repository.corp.at/id/eprint/1199

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