Grounded theory method

This chapter explains the methodological practices, purposes, and potential of grounded theory methodology (GTM) for qualitative research in applied linguistics. Ways of disseminating grounded theory research so that it complements the discourse conventions of the greater applied linguistics community are considered, and it is argued that GTM, when used appropriately, helps researchers to pace themselves while collecting qualitative data, offers procedures for critically analyzing the collected material, and provides a means for constructing midrange theories that can significantly contribute to the lives of educators, students, and even to scholarly communities outside of the field of applied linguistics