Live masterclasses
Half a day, one qualitative method or approach, taught live. With time to ask questions and learn together.
Each masterclass takes a single topic and dives fully into it, focusing on the practical aspects of the qualitative method, tool, or technique, to help you improve your skills as a qualitative researcher and better support and work with your participants. They take place live on Zoom, with practical discussions, exercises, or activities, and time for questions.
A full recording of the session is also provided for you to revisit afterwards (for 30 days post training) if you cannot make the whole session or need to refresh your memory.
Certificates of completion are also provided if you need this for your training record.
How they work
- Half a day, live on Zoom — usually 09.30 to 13.30 UK time
- Taught by me, not a facilitator working from someone else’s slides, or someone contracted in who has no experience of using these methods or approaches in their research – I have this experience and teach from it.
- Practical exercises using i.e. real data extracts, not just explanation or AI created examples.
- Slides, worksheets and a reading list to keep.
- A recording accessible for 30 days post training, so you don’t miss anything if life gets in the way on the day.
- Small enough groups that you can ask questions about your concerns and get helpful answers.
- Certificate of completion provided if you need this for your training record.
Upcoming masterclasses
Trauma Informed Qualitative Research
9 December 2026 · 09.30 – 13.30 (GMT) · Live on Zoom
This masterclass introduces participants to the intersection of trauma and qualitative research. It explores the value of a trauma-informed approach and how we incorporate trauma-informed principles into our research. It is appropriate for social researchers, students and professionals seeking a deeper understanding of trauma-informed research methods and their practical implications.
We look at the different categories and types of trauma, how people respond to it, and how trauma can shape the research process. This includes the risks of re-traumatisation, participant distress and vicarious trauma for the researcher. We will explore the ethical dilemmas that can come up at each research stage, from study design to data collection and analysis. You will leave with the knowledge and tools to apply trauma-informed principles in your own work.
How to Conduct Reflexive Thematic Analysis
10 December 2026 · 09.30 – 13.30 (GMT) · Live on Zoom
This popular course provides you with skills on how to manually conduct reflexive thematic analysis. While providing a brief overview of different thematic approaches, the focus of the masterclass is on Braun and Clarke’s (2021) reflexive thematic analysis and 6 iterative phases. Through practical exercises in which we code qualitative interview data, and review themes, you will come away with confidence and clarity in this qualitative approach, and be able to apply this to your own data.
This is an ideal first step on your analysis journey with us – try out this half-day masterclass first to familiarise yourself with the approach, and then join us for the intensive 4 week Reflexive Thematic Analysis Bootcamp – an in-depth, expert supported journey through RTA with your own qualitative data.
CRAFTING QUALITATIVE INTERVIEWS
27 January 2027 · 09.30 – 13.30 (GMT) · Live on Zoom
Interviews are the method most of us reach for first in qualitative research. A good interview gives us detailed accounts of people’s lives and how they make sense of the world, in a way a survey cannot. But a good interview takes much more than a list of questions.
In this live online course we treat interviewing as a craft, something you can learn and get better at with practice. We look at what makes an interview work, from how you design and order your questions to how you probe and follow up in the moment. We compare unstructured and semi-structured interviews, and you will work on designing an interview schedule during the session.
We also cover building trust and rapport, the power relations at play in an interview, and the role of ethics and reflexivity.
how to conduct reflexive thematic analysis
3 February 2027 · 09.30 – 13.30 (GMT) · Live on Zoom
This popular course provides you with skills on how to manually conduct reflexive thematic analysis. While providing a brief overview of different thematic approaches, the focus of the masterclass is on Braun and Clarke’s (2021) reflexive thematic analysis and 6 iterative phases. Through practical exercises in which we code qualitative interview data, and review themes, you will come away with confidence and clarity in this qualitative approach, and be able to apply this to your own data.
This is an ideal first step on your analysis journey with us – try out this half-day masterclass first to familiarise yourself with the approach, and then join us for the intensive 4 week Reflexive Thematic Analysis Bootcamp – an in-depth, expert supported journey through RTA with your own qualitative data.
sensitive and challenging qualitative interviews
10 February 2027 · 09.30 – 13.30 (GMT) · Live on Zoom
This online Masterclass provides you with an insight into the design and practice of advanced qualitative interviews. These can include, for example, interviews on sensitive topics, interviews involving distress, interviews with vulnerable participants, or interviews when it is difficult to build rapport. Crucially, the training provides participants with hand-on strategies, guidance and reflections on how to manage these situations as interviewer and build confidence in doing so. It provides participants with an understanding of how vulnerability, distress, sensitivities, and risk are assessed in qualitative interviewing and the importance of being able to respond to these, if, and when, necessary.
design and facilitate focus groups that work
10 March 2027 · 09.30 – 13.30 (GMT) · Live on Zoom
This online Masterclass provides you with an insight into the design and practice of advanced qualitative interviews. These can include, for example, interviews on sensitive topics, interviews involving distress, interviews with vulnerable participants, or interviews when it is difficult to build rapport.
Crucially, the training provides participants with hand-on strategies, guidance and reflections on how to manage these situations as interviewer and build confidence in doing so. It provides participants with an understanding of how vulnerability, distress, sensitivities, and risk are assessed in qualitative interviewing and the importance of being able to respond to these, if, and when, necessary.
Pricing
Reduced rate for students, PGRs and unwaged
£190 inc VAT (£158.33 + VAT)
The reduced rate is for students, PGRs and unwaged researchers. If your institution, employer or funder is paying, the standard rate applies.
Bookings should be made by clicking on the link for the relevant Masterclass above.
Charities and small non-profits can get in touch about a limited number of places at the reduced rate.
Standard rate for organisations and professional researchers
£230 inc VAT (£191.67 + VAT)
For professional researchers and staff and where an employer, grant or department is paying.
Bookings should be made by clicking on the link for the relevant Masterclass above.
If you require payment by invoice please contact me to check if this will be possible: karen@qualitativetraining.com
NEW Masterclasses coming in 2027
Designing Qualitative Research with Neurodivergent Participants
Qualitative Research in the AI Landscape
Want this for your team?
Every masterclass can be delivered in-house for a department, doctoral training centre or research team, tailored to your discipline and your researchers’ stage. This can be better value than sending several people to an open session.
Common questions
What if I cannot attend live?
You will be able to watch the recording which you can access for 30 days post training. That said, the value is in the live discussion, so join us live if you possibly can. If you can’t attend live, you might find some of our on demand courses more suitable.
Do I need to bring my own data if we’re focusing on analysis?
No — exercises use prepared extracts when we cover analysis. But bring your questions about your own project.
Can I get an invoice for my department?
Yes. Get in touch to discuss invoicing directly. Payment terms must be confirmed in writing prior to training date.
testimonials on training
2nd year professional doctorate candidate
"Karen's masterclass was worth every penny. Her kind, approachable style made it enjoyable, and she always had a useful resource to send or a sensible suggestion. She is genuinely interested in our research, and for me, returning to research after a significant break, the workshop was brilliant and saved me so much time and stress. It gave me confidence that I was thinking about RTA the right way and conducting it in a valid, defensible manner, and provided references for specific points about my work (e.g., using surveys rather than interviews) that I might not have found."
Mark Napier
“I have just had some excellent training today on Trauma Informed Qualitative Research delivered by Karen Lumsden. I would highly recommend it as it has given me a lot of food for thought and will definitely shape how I approach my work."
Zoe Anderson
“I really enjoyed Dr Lumsden's Thematic Analysis training. Her teaching is clear, engaging and well structured. Dr Lumsden tailored the class to the needs of the group, making space to address specific questions and offer support for each student's level of experience. As someone fairly new to this field, I didn’t ever feel left behind. Along with the sessions, course materials and further resources were accessible and useful.”
Dr Scott J Threlfall
"I recently had the pleasure of attending Dr. Karen Lumsden's training on an introduction to autoethnography, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. From the very start, Dr. Lumsden captivated the group with her supportive and engaging style. Her vast experience in the field was evident throughout the training, as she seamlessly guided us through complex concepts and provided valuable insights.
Dr. Lumsden's approach to training is truly outstanding. She creates a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages active participation and fosters a sense of community among participants. Her ability to make even the most challenging topics accessible and understandable is a testament to her exceptional skills as an educator. Dr. Lumsden's enthusiasm for autoethnography is infectious, and her passion for the subject matter inspired everyone in the room to delve deeper and explore new perspectives.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Dr. Lumsden's training is her unwavering commitment to supporting her students. She is always available to answer questions, provide feedback, and offer guidance, ensuring that each participant feels valued and heard. Dr. Lumsden's personalised approach allows her to cater to the unique needs and learning styles of each individual, making the training experience both enjoyable and highly effective.
I highly recommend Dr. Karen Lumsden's courses and training programmes to anyone considering booking onto them. Her expertise, combined with her supportive and engaging style, makes for an unparalleled learning experience. Whether you are new to autoethnography or looking to deepen your knowledge, Dr. Lumsden's training will undoubtedly exceed your expectations. Her dedication to her students and her passion for the subject matter make her an outstanding trainer who comes highly recommended indeed. You won't regret taking part in one of her courses!"
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