A researcher conducts a series of interviews and codes the data for three main themes, analyzing variations by age and gender. What type of approach is this?

The correct approach is best described as quantized qualitative research. This term refers to a method in which qualitative data, such as interview responses, are categorized and coded into quantifiable themes that can be analyzed statistically. By identifying three main themes and considering variations by age and gender, the researcher emphasizes the systematic organization of qualitative insights, allowing for comparisons and statistical analysis of the coded data.

This approach is particularly suited for studies aiming to bridge qualitative and quantitative methodologies, facilitating a richer understanding of data through both narrative depth and numerical representation. In contrast, the other options refer to specific methodologies that either focus solely on qualitative or have different objectives that do not include quantifying themes for variation analysis. For example, phenomenological research typically prioritizes in-depth exploration of personal experiences rather than coding for themes in a quantifiable manner. Grounded theory focuses on generating theories from qualitative data rather than the quantization of themes. Similarly, a field study does not inherently involve the coding of data into themes but rather is oriented around observing and documenting phenomena in their natural settings.