Generative AI in Qualitative Research: Debating Its Suitability
A paper on arXiv explores the contentious role of generative AI in qualitative research, specifically within software engineering. The authors summarize ongoing debates, noting that the suitability of AI depends on the research approach—small-q (positivist/post-positivist) or Big Q (non-positivist). Beyond philosophy, factors like skills, ethics, and personal preferences influence researchers' decisions. The paper does not take a definitive stance but maps the criteria for using AI in qualitative work.
Key facts
- The paper is titled 'To Vibe Research or Not to Vibe Research? Generative AI in Qualitative Research'.
- It is categorized under Computer Science > Software Engineering on arXiv.
- The abstract discusses intense debate among qualitative researchers about generative AI.
- Research approach (small-q vs. Big Q) is a major criterion for AI use.
- Skills, ethics, and personal preferences also affect decisions.
- The paper summarizes broader discussions for software engineering researchers.
- It was submitted to arXiv and is available as HTML.
- The source URL is https://arxiv.org/abs/2605.00922.
Entities
Institutions
- arXiv