Phenomenology as qualitative methodology

Phenomenology is both a philosophical movement and a family of qualitative research methodologies. The term ‘phenomenology’ refers to the study of phenomena, where a phenomenon is anything that appears to someone in their conscious experience (Moran, 2000). The objective of this chapter is to develop a typology to classify and contrast five phenomenological methodologies from diverse disciplines. This chapter illustrates how different types of phenomenological methodologies can be applied by focusing on an example of each in the field of organisational studies. The development of a typology is important because distinct phenomenological methodologies have proliferated across different social sciences, including nursing, pedagogy and psychology. By comparing the differing assumptions, aims, and analytical steps of each methodology, the chapter seeks to illuminate the broad possibilities of phenomenology to address a range of research questions. Although it is beyond the scope of this chapter to examine each type of phenomenology in its entirety, it elaborates on a series of guidelines to support researchers in selecting one type that is apposite to their needs.