Dr. Heather Vough
George Mason University

Session abstract

In this session, we will explore many of the fundamental aspects of using a grounded theory approach for qualitative projects. We will cover topics such as iteration between data collection and analysis, purposeful and theoretical sampling, the constant comparative method, ensuring trustworthiness, theoretical saturation, and developing emergent theory. Participants will be given some data to analyze and will have the opportunity to discuss their analysis with other participants, keeping in mind topics addressed in the session.

Presenter biography

Heather C. Vough is a Professor of Management in the Donald G. Costello College of Business at George Mason University. Her research is focused on understanding how employees make sense of events and setbacks at work as well as how they construct their identities relative to their careers, professions, organizations, and workgroups. She has used qualitative methods to address these questions across a variety of contexts including architecture firms, start-ups, and call centers. She is currently an Associate Editor at Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes and was formerly an Associate Editor at the Academy of Management Journal. In both positions, she was primarily responsible for handling qualitative manuscripts. She also serves on the editorial board of four journals.