B06: Qualitative Data Collection: Online, Mixed-mode and Multimethod Strategies

Qualitative research entails the collection of rich primary data, via fieldwork (participant and non-participant observation), interviews, focus groups, etc.. Beyond – and in complement to – using standard on-site, in-the-field, in-person data collection, it is possible to gather richer, more diverse data by exploiting technology and by combining data collection methods. In concrete terms: for each main type of qualitative data collection (e.g. interviews, focus groups, fieldwork), it is possible to be more agile and to diversify modes of data collection. Such strategies are useful not only when one is constrained (e.g. when a given field is physically not accessible, too risky etc.); they can also constitute a deliberate choice – to enrich the qualitative data collected

Three strategies can be adopted: online, mixed-mode (i.e. collecting both in-person data & online data) and multimethod (i.e. collecting diverse types of data via different methods, and following a certain sequence). In this course, we will unpack these 3 strategies, hands-on, with protocols and tricks of the trade, for each respective data collection method: interviews, focus groups and fieldwork. This will be illustrated via concrete examples. The purpose of the course is to enable each course participant to develop “the right mix” of these strategies so as to gather richer and more robust qualitative data.

This description is subject to change at the discretion of the Instructor

2 Credits

For completion of all work before and during the course, as outlined by the Instructor, and 90% participation and attendance of the course.

2 Additional Credits

Course specific extra assignments. These can include submitting assignments before the course, daily assignments, and/or a final assignment to be completed after the course as decided by the Instructor.  This description is subject to change at the discretion of the Instructor.