Political reflexivity in post-bushfire research

2014 ◽  
Vol 14 (3) ◽  
pp. 259-271 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lisa Gibbs ◽  
Colin MacDougall ◽  
Karen Block
Keyword(s):  
Research Participant ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Disaster Research ◽  
Qualitative Researcher ◽  
Content Type ◽  
External Pressures ◽  
Reflexive Practice ◽  
Public Debates ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Post Disaster

Purpose – Post-disaster research presents particular challenges for the qualitative researcher due to the wider contextual demands of media attention, public debates and intense scrutiny of policy and service delivery. It highlights the importance of reflexive practice to identify and address any unintended influences on the research processes and outcomes. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – In this paper the authors present three case studies of post-bushfire research to demonstrate how the authors adopted a reflexive approach to address external pressures on the conduct and presentation of the research. Findings – There are various types of reflexivity identified in the literature to identify influences on the research participant and the research findings arising, for example, from the way the researcher shapes the research findings (personal reflexivity), and the influence of the research process (epistemological reflexivity). In this paper the authors argue for a different reflexivity: one that is political and has a direct influence on the researcher. Practical implications – Adoption of political reflexivity is an important tool in post-disaster research to ensure that external influences do not undermine the integrity of the research processes, findings and dissemination. Originality/value – The importance of reflexivity in research is well recognized as a means of addressing power and unintended influences on research participants and research processes. The authors introduce the notion of political reflexivity to this debate in recognition of the need to address the potential for research findings and reports to be compromised by political agendas.

scholarly journals Research fatigue in COVID-19 pandemic and post-disaster research: causes, consequences and recommendations

2020 ◽  
Vol 29 (4) ◽  
pp. 445-455 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sonny S. Patel ◽  
Rebecca K. Webster ◽  
Neil Greenberg ◽  
Dale Weston ◽  
Samantha K. Brooks
Keyword(s):  
Research Process ◽  
Coordination Failure ◽  
Disaster Research ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Quantitative Studies ◽  
Aid Coordination ◽  
Post Disaster

PurposeResearch fatigue occurs when an individual or population of interest tires of engaging with research, consequently avoiding further participation. This paper considers research fatigue in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic, to identify contributory factors and possible solutions for future post-disaster research.Design/methodology/approachThe authors draw on examples from the literature and their own observations from the recruitment and data collection phases of qualitative and quantitative studies, to provide an overview of possible research fatigue in the current COVID-19 pandemic, with implications for future post-disaster research.FindingsPeople affected by disasters sometimes receive multiple requests for study participation by separate teams who may not necessarily be coordinating their work. Not keeping participants informed of the research process or outcomes can lead to disillusionment. Being overburdened with too many research requests and failing to see any subsequent changes following participation may cause individuals to experience research fatigue.Originality/valueGuidelines for researchers wishing to reduce the occurrence of research fatigue include ensuring greater transparency within research; sharing of results and using oversight or gatekeeper bodies to aid coordination. Failure to restrict the number of times that people are asked to participate in studies risks poor participation rates. This can subsequently affect the quality of information with which to inform policy-makers and protect the health of the public during the COVID-19 pandemic or other public health disasters/emergencies.

Navigeren in het onderzoeksveld en het onderzoekersveld: reflecties op onderzoekspositionaliteit in (vermeend) insideronderzoek

KWALON ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 26 (1) ◽  
pp. 43-51
Author(s):  
Jing Hiah
Keyword(s):  
Social Science ◽  
Social Science Research ◽  
Science Research ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Research Field ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Insider Research ◽  
Labour Relations ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Shed Light

Abstract Navigating the research and researchers’ field: Reflections on positionality in (assumed) insider research To challenge rigid ideas about objectivity in social science research, qualitative researchers question their own subjectivity in the research process. In such endeavors, the focus is mainly on the positionality of the researcher vis-à-vis their respondents in the research field. In this contribution, I argue that the positionality of the researcher in academia, what I refer to as the researchers’ field, is equally important as it influences the way research findings are received and evaluated. Through reflections on positionality in my insider research concerning labour relations and exploitation in Chinese migrant businesses in the Netherlands and Romania, I explore how my positionality as an insider negatively influenced my credibility and approachability in the researchers’ field. I conclude that it is necessary to pay more attention to researchers’ positionality in academia as it may shed light on and make it possible to discuss the written and unwritten standards of researchers’ credibility and approachability as an academic in the researchers’ field. Accordingly, this could provide insights into the causes of inequalities in academia and contribute to the current challenge for more diversity in academia.

The methodological challenge of cross-national qualitative research

2015 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 373-386 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kirsten Martinus ◽  
David Hedgcock
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Policy Research ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Comparative Case Study ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Qualitative Case Studies ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Cross National

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to highlight the difficulties faced during the interview process in a cross-national qualitative comparative case study between Japan and Australia. It discusses the challenges in producing insightful data and preserving the integrity of findings when methodologies are influenced by different cultural and professional environments. Design/methodology/approach – The paper explores literature on cross-national qualitative research in the context of policy research as well as the philosophical and professional differences between Japan and Western countries (like Australia). It reflects on practical examples and strategies used by the researcher during the ethics and interview processes when adapting widely accepted qualitative case study methodology to suit the Japanese cultural and professional environment. Findings – The paper finds that linguistic, cultural, professional and philosophical differences between the countries challenged initial researcher assumptions that comparability between the case study regions would be maintained through the application of accepted methodologies and an “insider” status. It observes that the quest to generate rich and insightful data places the character and capability of the researcher as central in the research process. Originality/value – This paper provides practical examples and strategies for social science researchers using interview methods in Japan and Australian. It points to a need for further research on the ambiguous and elusive nature of the “insider” paradigm as well as the “comparability” of cross-national qualitative case studies when methodological “flexibility” is used to enrich and preserve the integrity of research findings.

scholarly journals Experimenter as Automaton; Experimenter as Human: Exploring the Position of the Researcher in Scientific Research

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarahanne Miranda Field ◽  
Maarten Derksen
Keyword(s):  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Qualitative Methodology ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Current Crisis ◽  
The Social ◽  
Reflexive Practice ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Combination Approach ◽  
Quality Of Research

The crisis of confidence in the social sciences has many corollaries which impact our research practices. One of these is a push towards maximal and mechanical objectivity in quantitative research. This stance is reinforced by major journals and academic institutions that subtly yet certainly link objectivity with integrity and rigor. The converse implication of this may be an association between subjectivity and low quality. Subjectivity is one of qualitative methodology’s best assets, however. In qualitative methodology, that subjectivity is often given voice through reflexivity. It is used to better understand our own role within the research process, and is a means through which the researcher may oversee how they influence their research. Given that the actions of researchers have led to the poor reproducibility characterising the crisis of confidence, it is worthwhile to consider whether reflexivity can help improve the validity of research findings in quantitative psychology. In this report, we describe a combination approach of research: the data of a series of interviews helps us elucidate the link between reflexive practice and quality of research, through the eyes of practicing academics. Through our exploration of the position of the researcher in their research, we shed light on how the reflections of the researcher can impact the quality of their research findings, in the context of the current crisis of confidence. The validity of these findings is tempered, however, by limitations to the sample, and we advise caution on the part of our audience in their reading of our conclusions.

scholarly journals Experimenter as automaton; experimenter as human: exploring the position of the researcher in scientific research

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarahanne M. Field ◽  
Maarten Derksen
Keyword(s):  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Qualitative Methodology ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Current Crisis ◽  
The Social ◽  
Reflexive Practice ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Combination Approach ◽  
Quality Of Research

Abstract The crisis of confidence in the social sciences has many corollaries which impact our research practices. One of these is a push towards maximal and mechanical objectivity in quantitative research. This stance is reinforced by major journals and academic institutions that subtly yet certainly link objectivity with integrity and rigor. The converse implication of this may be an association between subjectivity and low quality. Subjectivity is one of qualitative methodology’s best assets, however. In qualitative methodology, that subjectivity is often given voice through reflexivity. It is used to better understand our own role within the research process, and is a means through which the researcher may oversee how they influence their research. Given that the actions of researchers have led to the poor reproducibility characterising the crisis of confidence, it is worthwhile to consider whether reflexivity can help improve the validity of research findings in quantitative psychology. In this report, we describe a combination approach of research: the data of a series of interviews helps us elucidate the link between reflexive practice and quality of research, through the eyes of practicing academics. Through our exploration of the position of the researcher in their research, we shed light on how the reflections of the researcher can impact the quality of their research findings, in the context of the current crisis of confidence. The validity of these findings is tempered, however, by limitations to the sample, and we advise caution on the part of our audience in their reading of our conclusions.

Determinants of rural livelihood interventions: an ISM-MICMAC approach

2019 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 343-362 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shubham Kumar ◽  
Tapas Kumar Giri ◽  
Bidyut Jyoti Gogoi
Keyword(s):  
Hierarchical Model ◽  
Structural Model ◽  
Institutional Environment ◽  
Good Governance ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Rural Livelihood ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Development Literature

Purpose Livelihood interventions are recognized as instruments to deliver sustainable development by addressing multidimensional issues of poverty. Despite several interventions, success still remains trivial due to various interactive determinants. The purpose of this paper is to present the hierarchical model of determinants of rural livelihood interventions in India. Design/methodology/approach This study adopts interpretive structural modelling (ISM) approach to explore the interactive relationships among determinants. Then, by using the Matrice d’ Impacts Croises - Multipication Applique a classement (MICMAC) approach, these determinants are classified into four groups on the basis of their driving power and dependence power. Findings The research findings include identification of nine critical determinants using hybrid research process. These nine determinants are classified into four distinct levels revealing different extents of influence on livelihood outcomes. The results show that strong emphasis should be given to local institutions and enclosing institutional environment in terms of good governance and better convergence. Practical implications The research findings offer insights for policy-makers on the hierarchical model among determinants. The study will help to close the existing dominant gap between theory and practice and imply corresponding methods and processes to deliver better livelihood outcomes. Originality/value This study contributes to policy literature by providing a structural model for interventions. This model identifies the dominant as well as mediating determinants and thereby guides policymakers to develop corresponding instruments and strategies. The study also contributes to rural development literature by identifying various interactive contextual relationships and thereby classifying the high priority determinants.

Combining qualitative methods in practice

2014 ◽  
Vol 52 (4) ◽  
pp. 777-793 ◽  
Author(s):  
Antonella Carù ◽  
Bernard Cova ◽  
Stefano Pace
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Methods ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Consumer Experience ◽  
Research Project ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Corporate Context ◽  
Consumer Experiences ◽  
Multidisciplinary Working ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
A Company

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss within a corporate context the advantages and limitations of combining different qualitative methods (namely consumers’ introspection and observation) to grasp consumer experiences. Design/methodology/approach – The paper reflexively examines the evolution of a research process through which a team of researchers and a company tried to understand how the online consumer experience unfolds. The paper discusses the research process, the problems addressed and the way results were shared and acted upon within the company. Findings – The findings show how the search for and implementation of the combination of observation and introspection is rooted in the kinds of organizational change processes that allow companies to appropriate new methodological approaches and modify the conduct of their service innovation processes. Research limitations/implications – The paper is based on a single research project, analysed only retrospectively and reflexively. As to its implications, the proposed qualitative methods help mediate the collaborative interaction between researchers and the company during a research project. Practical implications – The research findings already have been appropriated and used by a multidisciplinary working group, operating within a corporate environment. Similarly, other companies can manage this type of research process following three major guidelines: prepare the cultural background, be iterative and maintain a conversation. Originality/value – The paper offers a unique account of the process of using combined qualitative methods within a company to understand consumer experiences.

Toward multi-dimensional and developmental notion of researcher positionality

2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (3) ◽  
pp. 225-235 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hangyan Lu ◽  
Warren A. Hodge
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Cross Cultural ◽  
Developmental Aspect ◽  
Dynamic Interactions ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Cultural Narrative ◽  
Cross Cultural Study ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to argue for a multi-dimensional and developmental notion of researcher positionality in conducting qualitative research, in lieu of the dichotomous notion of outsider and insider. The former emphasizes the agentive role researchers play in knowledge production, whereas the latter has been much challenged as oversimplified and insufficient in understanding the dynamic interactions in which field researchers engage. Design/methodology/approach The paper borrows Milner’s (2007) four-level framework of research personality to reflect on one cross-cultural narrative inquiry study. Findings Reflective stories revealed that researcher positionality captures threads of intersectionality as well as inter- and intra-personal dynamics, and thus better informs the research process than what concept of insider/outsider dichotomy can do. Research limitations/implications The paper enriches the discussion of research positionality in qualitative research by involving a cross-cultural study where the researcher moved to-and-fro two sites. Practical implications The paper suggests a methodological and practical way of raising researcher’s awareness and agency relative to positionality by exposing the researcher to cross-cultural settings. Originality/value While the multi-dimensional aspect of researcher positionality and its relatedness to research findings has been much discussed, not much acknowledgment has been given to the developmental aspect of research positionality.

Research data management practices of chemistry researchers in federal universities of technology in Nigeria

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Fatimah Jibril Abduldayan ◽  
Fasola Petunola Abifarin ◽  
Georgina Uchey Oyedum ◽  
Jibril Attahiru Alhassan
Keyword(s):  
Data Management ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Management Practice ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Management Plan ◽  
Research Data ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Data Preservation ◽  
Research Data Management ◽  
Research Findings

Purpose The purpose of this study was to understand the research data management practices of chemistry researchers in the five specialized federal universities of technology in Nigeria. Appropriate research data management practice ensures that research data are available for reuse by secondary users, and research findings can be verified and replicated within the scientific community. A poor research data management practice can lead to irrecoverable data loss, unavailability of data to support research findings and lack of trust in the research process. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory research technique involving semi-structured, oral and face-to-face interview is used to gather data on research data management practices of chemistry researchers in Nigeria. Interview questions were divided into four major sections covering chemistry researchers’ understanding of research data, experience with data loss, data storage method and backup techniques, data protection, data preservation and availability of data management plan. Braun and Clarke thematic analysis approach was adapted, and the Provalis Qualitative Data Miner (version 5) software was used for generating themes and subthemes from the coding framework and for presenting the findings. Findings Findings revealed that chemistry researchers in Nigeria have a good understanding of the concept of research data and its importance to research findings. Chemistry researchers have had several experiences of irrecoverable loss of data because of poor choice of storage devices, back-up methods and weak data protection systems. Even though the library was agreed as the most preferred place for long-term data preservation, there is the issue of trust and fear of loss of ownership of data to unauthorized persons or party. No formal data management plan is used while conducting their scientific research. Research limitations/implications The research focused on research data management practices of chemistry researchers in the five specialized federal universities of technology in Nigeria. Although the findings of the study are similar to perceptions and practices of researchers around the world, it cannot be used as a basis for generalization across other scientific disciplines. Practical implications This study concluded that chemistry researchers need further orientation and continuous education on the importance and benefits of appropriate research data management practice. The library should also roll out research data management programs to guide researchers and improve their confidence throughout the research process. Social implications Appropriate research data management practice not only ensures that the underlying research data are true and available for reuse and re-validation, but it also encourages data sharing among researchers. Data sharing will help to ensure better collaboration among researchers and increased visibility of the datasets and data owners through the use of standard data citations and acknowledgements. Originality/value This is a qualitative and in-depth study of research data management practices and perceptions among researchers in a particular scientific field of study.

Selecting research approaches and research designs: a reflective essay

2017 ◽  
Vol 17 (2) ◽  
pp. 99-112 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nurdiana Gaus
Keyword(s):  
Social Sciences ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Research Process ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Research Designs ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Reflective Essay ◽  
Selection Of

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to show the research process which is laid on the interrelated aspects of paradigm-research-based approaches and research designs. Design/methodology/approach It draws on my PhD research project experience, where I deployed these interrelated aspects informing my methodological perspective to produce quality research via the generation of legitimate research findings. Findings From this practice, my chosen held paradigm, constructionism, has guided me to proceed with my research process, leading to the selection of a research approach (qualitative case study) and research designs (interviews, observation, and document analysis). Originality/value This conduct helps valorise the legitimacy of my research findings to produce legitimate knowledge. This reflective account of the research process can become a lesson for others who wish to go through a legitimate process of selecting the research approaches and research designs, particularly, in social sciences.

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