A researcher conducts in-depth interviews with individuals to explore their experiences and perceptions regarding community engagement. How should this research be classified?

This research should be classified as qualitative research because it focuses on understanding people's experiences and feelings in a detailed way. Qualitative research often involves methods like interviews, where researchers gather rich, descriptive data that cannot be easily measured or quantified. By conducting in-depth interviews, the researcher aims to explore the personal stories and insights of individuals about their involvement in community activities. For example, if someone shares how volunteering at a local shelter changed their view of community, this personal narrative provides depth that numbers alone cannot capture. Overall, this approach helps to uncover the meanings and emotions behind people's actions and beliefs.