Qualitative research as a methodological proposal for studies with a decolonial focus

Abstract

Despite significant advances in the decolonial movement, the methodological challenge of strengthening this new knowledge through the inclusion of a liberating perspective remains, both in the discourse and in the practices adopted. To explore this gap, the present study seeks to understand the contributions of qualitative research to studies that have a decolonial focus. Conceived as a theoretical essay, the study is based on a bibliographical review to establish connections between qualitative methodologies and decolonial approaches in research. Delimiting its analysis to a specific group of authors and works, it recognizes the existence of other significant contributions in the field of methodologies applied to decolonial studies. The main results highlight that qualitative research emerges as an alternative when appreciating multiple perceptions, clarifying meanings, verifying the recurrence of observations and interpretations, perceiving different realities, attributing a greater wealth of information, and increasing the complexity of the study. Furthermore, it gives participants a voice, contributing to the construction of a web of meanings that seeks to promote the emancipatory interests of decolonial studies.