Master on Qualitative Research

On November 7, 2024, the School of Commerce, Finance & Accountancy at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, hosted a highly engaging and educational Masterclass on Qualitative Research for MSc GFA students. The session, conducted from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM in Classroom 2225, was facilitated by Prof. Jerin Jose, Assistant Professor and Head of Specialization (HR) at the School of Business and Management. Prof. Jerin Jose, known for his extensive academic and industry experience, brought a unique perspective to the session, offering students a deep dive into the world of qualitative research and its growing importance in finance and analytics. The masterclass aimed to familiarize students with qualitative research techniques and their application in understanding complex phenomena that quantitative methods often fail to capture.

The session began with an introduction to the fundamentals of qualitative research, focusing on key techniques such as thematic analysis, case study research, and narrative inquiry. Prof. Jose explained how these methods provide a nuanced understanding of financial phenomena and human behaviors, which are critical in addressing challenges in global finance and analytics. A notable highlight of the masterclass was Prof. Jose's ability to connect theory with practical application. He shared examples of how qualitative research methods can be integrated with strategic decision-making processes, particularly in the context of finance. These examples demonstrated the value of qualitative techniques in identifying trends, understanding consumer behavior, and making informed decisions in complex environments.

Prof. Jose's dynamic teaching style created an interactive atmosphere, encouraging students to participate actively. The session included discussions on real-world scenarios where qualitative research played a pivotal role. Students were encouraged to ask questions and share their thoughts, making the session a collaborative learning experience. Through these interactions, participants gained insights into the complementary nature of qualitative and quantitative research. Prof. Jose emphasized that while quantitative methods provide measurable data, qualitative approaches uncover the stories and contexts behind the numbers,enriching the analysis and interpretation of financial data.

By the end of the session, MSc GFA students had acquired a solid understanding of how qualitative research methods could enhance their analytical skills. They were equipped with tools to address multifaceted challenges in their academic and professional journeys. This knowledge is particularly valuable in the evolving fields of finance and analytics, where a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches often leads to more comprehensive solutions.

The masterclass exemplified CHRIST University’s dedication to holistic education. By bridging theoretical concepts with practical applications, the institution continues to foster analytical excellence among its students. Events like these underscore the university's commitment to equipping its students with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in an increasingly complex and dynamic global landscape.

Overall, the Masterclass on Qualitative Research was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on the participants and reinforcing the importance of qualitative methods in modern finance and analytics. It served as a testament to the university’s mission of nurturing well-rounded professionals capable of making meaningful contributions to their fields.