In-depth Qualitative Survey: Mass Observation

Description:

In-depth Qualitative Survey: Mass Observation - Mon 1 June 9:30-16:00

Fiona Courage

This one day workshop will examine methods and analysis of in depth qualitative survey, using data collected by Mass Observation as a practical case study. Attendees will use examples from the Mass Observation Archive to reflect on how in depth qualitative data might be used in their research, thinking through  the following areas: what is in depth qualitative survey and what methods can be used to collect data? What kinds of data can it produce and how can these be analysed?

Mass Observation was founded in 1937 to undertake a survey of everyday life in Britain. Using both ethnographic and life writing methods, Mass Observation collected diaries, observational reports, questionnaire responses and ephemera to record daily life until the mid 1950s. In 1981, the project was started again, using a volunteer panel of writers to respond to in depth questionnaires reflecting everyday life in late 20th, early 21st Century UK. The project works with academics from various disciplines to gather data which forms part of the Mass Observation Archive housed at the University of Sussex at The Keep.

"The MO archive unit was the highlight of my term and has given me a new perspective on ways to incorporate MO methods and material from the archive in my work. I think Fiona's enthusiasm for the archive made for a really involving day."

Course Objectives

Examine methods of undertaking in depth qualitative surveys using documents and life writing

Reflect on methods of analysing written qualitative data within your own research field

Use the Mass Observation Archive as a practical case study to reflect on using one of these methods

Think through how methods of execution and analysis can fit into your own research practice

Indicative Readings:

Madge, C. & Harrisson, T.H. 1937. Mass Observation London: Frederick Muller Ltd.

Jeffery, T. 1999. Mass Observation: a short history Mass Observation Occasional Paper Series No. 10

Highmore, B. 2002 Everyday Life and Cultural Theory: an introduction, Routledge,  (p.75-112)

Plummer, K. 2001. Documents of Life 2: an invitation to critical humanism, London:Sage

Sheridan, D. 1996 “Damned anecdotes and dangerous confabulations” Mass Observation as life history. Mass Observation Occasional Paper No. 7

Summerfield, P. 1985 Mass-Observation: Social Research or Social Movement? In Journal of Contemporary History 20: 439 (available via electronic library)

Mass Observation website available at:  www.massobs.org.uk/index.htm

Level: as an advanced course this course is aimed at those who have some knowledge of qualitative research but does not presume that participants will have used Mass Observation or other survey methods.

Cost:

South East DTC, Essex Student: £20
External Student: £30
External Other: £100

Travel costs for research students can be reimbursed.

Website and registration:

http://www.sussex.ac.uk/doctoralschool/esrcdtc/training/socialresearchtraining

Region:

South East

Keywords:

Qualitative Data Handling and Data Analysis, in-depth qualitative survey analysis

Related publications and presentations:

Qualitative Data Handling and Data Analysis

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