scholarly journals Application of the critical incident technique in refining an initial programme theory

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Una Cunningham ◽  
Aoife De Brún ◽  
Eilish McAuliffe
Keyword(s):  
Critical Incident ◽  
Theory Development ◽  
Critical Incident Technique ◽  
Healthcare Staff ◽  
Research Topics ◽  
Programme Theory ◽  
Interview Format ◽  
Realist Methodology ◽  
Team Interventions

Abstract Abstract Introduction As realist methodology is still evolving, there is a paucity of guidance on how to conduct theory driven interviews. Novice realist researchers can therefore struggle to collect interview data that can make a meaningful contribution to refining their initial programme theory (IPT). In addition, researchers often face challenges when trying to conduct interviews with healthcare staff due to their busy work schedules. In this case study of team interventions in acute hospital contexts, we explore the benefits of using the Critical Incident Technique (CIT) in order to build and refine an IPT. Methods The five steps of the CIT were mapped against realist methods guidance and adapted into an interview framework. Specifications to identify an incident as “critical” were agreed. We embedded probes in the interview framework to confirm, refine and/or refute previous theories synthesised from the literature and to extrapolate new theories. Seventeen key informants were interviewed and recordings were transcribed and imported for analysis into NViVo software. Using RAMESES guidelines, Context-Mechanism-Outcomes configurations were extrapolated from a total of 31 incidents. Results We found that the CIT facilitated construction of an interview format that allowed KIs to reflect on specific positive or negative team interventions. We demonstrate how the CIT strengthened initial programme theory development as it facilitated the reporting of the specifics of team interventions and the contexts and mechanisms characteristic of those experiences. As new data emerged, it was possible to evolve previous theories synthesised from the literature as well as to explore new theories. Conclusions Utilising a CIT framework paid significant dividends in terms of the relevance and usefulness of the data for refining the IPT. Adapting the CIT questioning technique helped to focus the KIs on the specifics relating to an incident allowing the interviewers to concentrate on probes to explore theories during the interview process. The CIT interview format therefore achieved its purpose and the interview framework developed can be adapted for other research topics for use within realist methodology Key words: Critical Incident Interview, Realist, Programme Theory, Team, Intervention, Hospital, Methods

scholarly journals Application of the critical incident technique in refining a realist initial programme theory

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Una Cunningham ◽  
Aoife De Brún ◽  
Eilish McAuliffe
Keyword(s):  
Critical Incident ◽  
Healthcare Workers ◽  
Theory Development ◽  
Critical Incident Technique ◽  
Acute Hospital ◽  
Programme Theory ◽  
Interview Format ◽  
Realist Methodology ◽  
Team Interventions

Abstract Background: As realist methodology is still evolving, there is a paucity of guidance on how to conduct theory driven interviews. Realist researchers can therefore struggle to collect interview data that can make a meaningful contribution to refining their initial programme theory. Collecting data to inform realist IPTs in healthcare contexts is further compounded due to the healthcare workers’ busy work schedules. In this case study of team interventions in acute hospital contexts, we explore the benefits of using the Critical Incident Technique (CIT) in order to build and refine an initial programme theory. We contend that use of the CIT helps to draw on more specific experiences of “Key Informants” and therefore elicits richer and more relevant data for realist enquiry. Methods : The five steps of the CIT were mapped against realist methods guidance and adapted into an interview framework. Specifications to identify an incident as “critical” were agreed. Probes were embedded in the interview framework to confirm, refine and/or refute previous theories. Seventeen participants were interviewed and recordings were transcribed and imported for analysis into NVivo software. Using RAMESES guidelines, Context-Mechanism-Outcomes configurations were extrapolated from a total of 31 incidents. Results: We found that the CIT facilitated construction of an interview format that allowed participants to reflect on specific experiences of interest. We demonstrate how the CIT strengthened initial programme theory development as it facilitated the reporting of the specifics of team interventions and the contexts and mechanisms characteristic of those experiences. As new data emerged, it was possible to evolve previous theories synthesised from the literature as well as to explore new theories. Conclusions: Utilising a CIT framework paid dividends in terms of the relevance and usefulness of the data for refining the initial programme theory. Adapting the CIT questioning technique helped to focus the participants on the specifics relating to an incident allowing the interviewers to concentrate on probes to explore theories during the interview process. The CIT interview format therefore achieved its purpose and can be adapted for use within realist methodology

scholarly journals Team interventions in acute hospital contexts: protocol for the evaluation of an initial programme theory using realist methods

2021 ◽  
Vol 4 ◽  
pp. 32
Author(s):  
Una Cunningham ◽  
Aoife De Brún ◽  
Mayumi Willgerodt ◽  
Erin Blakeney ◽  
Eilish McAuliffe
Keyword(s):  
Secondary Analysis ◽  
Realist Evaluation ◽  
Acute Hospital ◽  
Healthcare Team ◽  
Programme Theory ◽  
Evaluation Approach ◽  
Middle Range ◽  
Team Interventions ◽  
Structured Approach

Introduction: Literature on multi-disciplinary healthcare team interventions to improve quality and safety of care in acute hospital contexts tends to focus on evaluating the success of the intervention by assessing patient outcomes. In contrast, there is little focus on the team who delivered the intervention, how the team worked to deliver the intervention or the context in which it was delivered. In practice, there is therefore a poor understanding of why some interventions work and are sustained and why others fail. There is little emphasis in the literature on how the team delivering the intervention might impact success or failure. Given that team is the vehicle through which these interventions are introduced, it is important to understand interventions from their perspectives. This research seeks to deepen understanding of enablers and barriers for effective team interventions. Using two case studies, we will evaluate previously developed initial programme theories to understand, what worked for whom, in what conditions, why, to what extent and how? Methods and analysis: A realist evaluation approach will be employed to test the previously formed set of initial programme theories. Two multi-disciplinary acute hospital team interventions in two different geographical and organisational contexts will be identified. In case study 1, a theory based approach to interviewing will be used. In case study 2, interview transcripts obtained using a semi- structured approach for primary research purposes will undergo secondary analysis. This will enable a more sensitive look at patterns and variations in patterns of multi-disciplinary team interventions. Researchers will first iteratively interrogate each respective dataset to identify the characteristics or resources present within the specific context that influenced how the team intervention worked to produce particular outcomes. Data will then be synthesised across contexts in order to produce middle range theories and thereby more generalisable insights.

Conditions of Network Engagement

2022 ◽  
pp. 69-84
Author(s):  
Veronika Trengereid
Keyword(s):  
Critical Incident ◽  
Network Dynamics ◽  
Critical Incident Technique ◽  
Tourism Industry ◽  
Research Interest ◽  
Social Aspect ◽  
Innovation Network ◽  
Regional Innovation ◽  
Social Construct

There is growing research interest in innovation network dynamics. Based on an explorative case study of a regional innovation network for the tourism industry, this chapter contributes to a better understanding of network engagement as a dynamic and social construct. By following the microfoundational trend, the chapter anchors the concept of engagement at a lower level in order to increase the depth of understanding of the conditions of network engagement. As there are many different notions of engagement, the chapters start by providing an overview of the different notions of engagement in innovation and network literature. Then, inspired by the critical incident technique, a narrative presents the findings, showing the dynamic and social aspect of network engagement, followed by a discussion of the conditions of network engagement and theoretical contributions.

scholarly journals The reasons women choose and stay in a geology major: a qualitative multi-case analysis

2021 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ron E. Gray ◽  
Alexis T. Riche ◽  
Isabel J. Shinnick-Gordon ◽  
James C. Sample
Keyword(s):  
Role Models ◽  
Critical Incident ◽  
Earth Science ◽  
Time Period ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Data Source ◽  
Introductory Classes ◽  
Iterative Coding ◽  
As Relationship

AbstractDespite earning half of all science and engineering undergraduate degrees between 2007 and 2016 in the USA, women were awarded only 39% of earth science degrees in the same time period. In order to better understand why women are both choosing and staying in geology programs, we conducted a multi-case study of nine current female undergraduate geology majors at a large public university in the USA within a department that is at gender parity among its undergraduate majors. The main data source was audio-recorded critical incident interviews of each participant. Data from the interviews were analyzed through an iterative coding process using codes adapted from previous studies that focused on factors both internal and external to the department. The students said that personal interests, influence by others outside of the department, and introductory classes attracted them to the geology program, but once declared, departmental factors such as relationship with faculty caused them to stay. We also found an emphasis on female role models, especially those teaching introductory courses. We believe this study offers important insights into the ways in which factors leading to recruitment and retention play out in the lived experiences of female geology majors.

scholarly journals Conversations about FGM in primary care: a realist review on how, why and under what circumstances FGM is discussed in general practice consultations

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. e039809
Author(s):  
Sharon Dixon ◽  
Claire Duddy ◽  
Gabrielle Harrison ◽  
Chrysanthi Papoutsi ◽  
Sue Ziebland ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Primary Care ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Theory Development ◽  
Realist Review ◽  
Primary Outcome Measure ◽  
Mandatory Reporting ◽  
Programme Theory ◽  
Genital Mutilation ◽  
The Impact

ObjectivesLittle is known about the management of female genital mutilation (FGM) in primary care. There have been significant recent statutory changes relevant to general practitioners (GPs) in England, including a mandatory reporting duty. We undertook a realist synthesis to explore what influences how and when GPs discuss FGM with their patients.SettingPrimary care in England.Data sourcesRealist literature synthesis searching 10 databases with terms: GPs, primary care, obstetrics, gynaecology, midwifery and FGM (UK and worldwide). Citation chasing was used, and relevant grey literature was included, including searching FGM advocacy organisation websites for relevant data. Other potentially relevant literature fields were searched for evidence to inform programme theory development. We included all study designs and papers that presented evidence about factors potentially relevant to considering how, why and in what circumstances GPs feel able to discuss FGM with their patients.Primary outcome measureThis realist review developed programme theory, tested against existing evidence, on what influences GPs actions and reactions to FGM in primary care consultations and where, when and why these influences are activated.Results124 documents were included in the synthesis. Our analysis found that GPs need knowledge and training to help them support their patients with FGM, including who may be affected, what needs they may have and how to talk sensitively about FGM. Access to specialist services and guidance may help them with this role. Reporting requirements may complicate these conversations.ConclusionsThere is a pressing need to develop (and evaluate) training to help GPs meet FGM-affected communities’ health needs and to promote the accessibility of primary care. Education and resources should be developed in partnership with community members. The impact of the mandatory reporting requirement and the Enhanced Dataset on healthcare interactions in primary care warrants evaluation.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42018091996.

The Critical Incident Technique: Method or Methodology?

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (7) ◽  
pp. 1065-1079 ◽  
Author(s):  
Roderik F. Viergever
Keyword(s):  
Data Collection ◽  
Critical Incident ◽  
Quality Care ◽  
Critical Incident Technique ◽  
Satisfaction With Care ◽  
Care Provision ◽  
Services Research ◽  
Data Collection And Analysis ◽  
Or Methodology ◽  
Good Quality Care

The critical incident technique (CIT) is a qualitative research tool that is frequently used in health services research to explore what helps or hinders in providing good quality care or achieving satisfaction with care provision. However, confusion currently exists on the nature of the CIT: Is it a method for data collection and analysis or a methodology? In this article, I explain why this distinction is important and I argue that the CIT is a methodology (and not a method) for the following reasons: Key methodological dimensions are described for the CIT; it has a clear focus; studies that apply this technique make use of various methods for data collection and analysis; it describes, explains, evaluates, and justifies the use of a specific format for those methods; it implies philosophical and practical assumptions; and studies that use the CIT cannot easily make use of additional methodologies simultaneously.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document