R18: Using QMethodology in your Research

Content:

Q-methodology can be used to investigate the complexity of differing participants’ positions where differences of opinion are expected.  Q-methodology is a way of thinking about research; a methodology in its own right.  As such, researchers use this methodology across differing fields of research in ways that suit their position as a researcher.  This methodology uses a card-sorting technique that generates data for factor analysis.  These factors indicate correlations of position amongst participants.  Q-methodology can therefore provide in-depth quantitative and qualitative data associated with social influences in a measurable form.   The use of subjectivity is of great importance in this methodology, allowing participants the freedom to express their positions.  This workshop will focus on the qualitative aspect of Q-methodology.

The workshops outline includes:

• The Inventor of Q-methodology: William Stephenson
• The Science of subjectivity
• Considering ones position as a researcher and how this would influence the use of Q-methodology
• Developing a concourse
• Carrying out the Q-sort
• Qualitative analysis of the participants Q-sorts and generated factors

This two hour workshop will introduce you to the key concepts of Q methodology, which will be underpinned with examples from the facilitator’s research and experience.

Vitae RDF descriptors addressed in this session are:

Knowledge and intellectual abilities (A)
This domain contains the knowledge and intellectual abilities needed to be able to carry out excellent research.

• Knowledge base (A1)
• Cognitive abilities (A2)